Princess Birgitta of Sweden: A Life Beyond the Palace Walls

Princess Birgitta of Sweden, born on January 19, 1937, is the second daughter of Prince Gustaf Adolf, Duke of Västerbotten, and Princess Sibylla of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. As the sister of King Carl XVI Gustaf, she holds a prominent, though somewhat unconventional, place within the Swedish royal family.

Her early life was shaped by tragedy. Her father died in a plane crash when she was only ten years old, leaving a profound impact on her and her siblings. Despite this hardship, she received a thorough education and participated in royal duties, representing Sweden at various events both domestically and internationally.

In 1961, Princess Birgitta married Prince Johann Georg of Hohenzollern in a lavish ceremony in Stockholm, followed by a religious ceremony in Sigmaringen, Germany. The marriage produced three children: Prince Carl Christian, Princess Désirée, and Prince Hubertus. While the marriage was initially a success, the couple separated in 1990, although they remained legally married until Prince Johann Georg’s death in 2016.

Unlike some of her siblings who have remained closely tied to official royal duties, Princess Birgitta has carved out a life largely independent of the Swedish court. After her separation, she moved to Mallorca, Spain, where she has resided for many years. This move allowed her to pursue her personal interests, most notably golf. She is an avid golfer and has been actively involved in promoting the sport on the island. She even owned and managed a golf course, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.

While living in Spain, Princess Birgitta hasn’t entirely abandoned her royal obligations. She still attends significant family events, such as royal weddings and birthdays, demonstrating her continued commitment to her family and the Swedish monarchy. Her presence is always warmly received, and she remains a popular figure with the Swedish public.

Princess Birgitta is known for her independent spirit, her warm personality, and her down-to-earth approach to life. She has often been described as the most outgoing and approachable of the King’s sisters. Her decision to live a life outside the direct spotlight of the royal court has allowed her to pursue her passions and live life on her own terms, making her a unique and admired member of the Swedish royal family. Despite living abroad, she remains deeply connected to her Swedish heritage and continues to represent her country with grace and dignity whenever she is called upon.