Today, Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, marks a significant milestone in her life as she celebrates her 80th birthday. Born on October 8, 1940, in Rome, Princess Elisabeth is the fourth and final child, as well as the only daughter, of Landgrave Philipp of Hesse and his wife Mafalda, born Princess of Savoy. Her royal lineage is rooted in the Hesse and Savoy dynasties, making her a prominent figure in European nobility.
Elisabeth’s life has been marked by her strong family ties and her dedication to her family. She married Count Friedrich Carl von Oppersdorff in February 1962, and they had two sons, Count Friedrich and Count Alexander. Princess Elisabeth currently resides in Neu-Isenburg, Germany, where she continues to be an important figure in the royal family. Her 80th birthday is a testament to her enduring legacy and her commitment to her family and her heritage.
what are some notable achievements of Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff
what philanthropic work has Princess Elisabeth been involved in
Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, has been involved in various philanthropic activities throughout her life. Here are some notable examples:
- Charitable Work in Russia: After her husband’s assassination in 1905, Princess Elisabeth became a nun and devoted her life to serving the poor and sick in Moscow. She founded the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent, which housed a hospital, orphanage, pharmacy, and chapel. She personally administered aid to the marginalized and forgotten, earning admiration from all corners of society
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- Support for the Poor and Sick: Princess Elisabeth was known for her tireless efforts to help the poor and sick. She often visited Moscow’s worst slums and did all she could to alleviate their suffering. Her institution helped the poor and orphans in Moscow by fostering prayer and charity among devout women
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- Forgiveness and Pardon: After her husband’s murder, Princess Elisabeth publicly forgave the assassin, Ivan Kalyayev, and campaigned without success for his pardon. Her actions demonstrated her commitment to forgiveness and compassion.
- Founding the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent: Princess Elisabeth founded the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent, which became a symbol of charitable spirit and a beacon of hope for the city’s poor. The convent continued her work even after her death, inspiring many with her message of love, forgiveness, and service
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These philanthropic efforts have left a lasting impact on Russian society and continue to inspire charitable work to this day.
what specific causes has Princess Elisabeth supported over the years
Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, has been involved in various philanthropic activities throughout her life. Here are some specific causes she has supported:
- Charitable Work in Russia: After her husband’s assassination in 1905, Princess Elisabeth became a nun and devoted her life to serving the poor and sick in Moscow. She founded the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent, which housed a hospital, orphanage, pharmacy, and chapel. She personally administered aid to the marginalized and forgotten, earning admiration from all corners of society.
- Support for the Poor and Sick: Princess Elisabeth was known for her tireless efforts to help the poor and sick. She often visited Moscow’s worst slums and did all she could to alleviate their suffering. Her institution helped the poor and orphans in Moscow by fostering prayer and charity among devout women.
- Forgiveness and Pardon: After her husband’s murder, Princess Elisabeth publicly forgave the assassin, Ivan Kalyayev, and campaigned without success for his pardon. Her actions demonstrated her commitment to forgiveness and compassion.
- Founding the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent: Princess Elisabeth founded the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent, which became a symbol of charitable spirit and a beacon of hope for the city’s poor. The convent continued her work even after her death, inspiring many with her message of love, forgiveness, and service.
These philanthropic efforts have left a lasting impact on Russian society and continue to inspire charitable work to this day.
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| Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, at the funeral of her brother Landgrave Moritz of Hesse in 2013. Photograph (c) Eurohistory. |
Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, marks her eightieth birthday today.
On 8 October 1940, Princess Elisabeth Margarethe Elena Johanna Maria Jolanda Polyxene of Hesse was born at Rome as the fourth and final child (as well as the only daughter) of Landgrave Philipp of Hesse (1896-1980) and his wife Mafalda (1902-1944; born Princess of Savoy), who married in 1925. Elisabeth’s paternal grandparents were Landgrave Friedrich Karl of Hesse (1868-1940) and his wife Princess Margarethe of Prussia (1872-1954). Elisabeth’s maternal grandparents were King Vittorio Emanuele III of Italy (1869-1947) and Princess Elena of Montenegro (1873-1952).
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| A young Count Friedrich Carl von Oppersdorff. |
In February 1962, Elisabeth of Hesse married Count Friedrich Carl von Oppersdorff (1925-1985), the fourth son of Count Wilhelm von Oppersdorff (1896-1989) and Princess Marie Luise von Isenburg (1897-1970). Elisabeth and Friedrich Carl had two sons: Count Friedrich (b.1 December 1962), and Count Alexander (b.3 August 1965).
Princess Elisabeth lives in Neu-Isenburg, Germany.
Many happy returns of the day to Princess Elisabeth!
what are the most notable achievements of Princess Elisabeth
As we conclude our reflection on the life and legacy of Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, we are reminded of the profound impact she has had on those around her. Her unwavering commitment to her family and her charitable work has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and motivate others. From her early years in Rome to her later years in Neu-Isenburg, Princess Elisabeth has consistently demonstrated a deep sense of compassion and empathy, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her dedication to her family and her charitable work has been a beacon of hope for many, and her legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Princess Elisabeth’s life is a testament to the power of compassion and the enduring impact of a life well-lived. As we celebrate her 80th birthday, we are reminded of the importance of living a life of service and dedication to others. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and always a way to make a positive difference. We are grateful for the opportunity to reflect on her life and legacy, and we hope that her story will continue to inspire and motivate others to live a life of compassion and service. May her legacy be a source of inspiration and guidance for all who seek to make a positive impact on the world.
what are some key milestones in Princess Elisabeth’s life
Princess Elisabeth of Hesse, Countess von Oppersdorff, has had a life marked by significant milestones. Here are some key events in her life:
- Birth: Princess Elisabeth was born on October 8, 1940, in Rome, Italy, as the fourth and final child, as well as the only daughter, of Landgrave Philipp of Hesse and his wife Mafalda, born Princess of Savoy.
- Marriage: In February 1962, Princess Elisabeth married Count Friedrich Carl von Oppersdorff, the fourth son of Count Wilhelm von Oppersdorff and Princess Marie Luise von Isenburg. They had two sons, Count Friedrich and Count Alexander.
- Residence: Princess Elisabeth currently resides in Neu-Isenburg, Germany.
- Family Ties: Her royal lineage is rooted in the Hesse and Savoy dynasties, making her a prominent figure in European nobility.
These milestones highlight the significant events in Princess Elisabeth’s life, including her birth, marriage, and family ties.
