Isabelle Oreans Princess of Orleans, after marriage Duchess of Guise Date of Birth: 07.05.1878 Country: France

1. Princess Isabella of Orléans: A Life of Nobility and Service
2. Exile and Romance
3. Marriage and Title
4. Family and Philanthropy
5. Political Activism and Refuge
6. World War II and Return to Morocco
7. Legacy and Passing

Princess Isabella of Orléans: A Life of Nobility and Service

Princess Isabella of Orléans, later Duchess of Guise, was born into a royal family marked by political turmoil. The daughter of Louis-Philippe, Count of Paris, an Orléanist pretender to the French throne, and his wife Maria Isabella of Orléans, Princess Isabella was raised in France.

Exile and Romance

With the establishment of the Third Republic, Isabella and her family were forced to seek refuge in England and later Spain. As she grew older, she became renowned for her beauty and charm. One of her ardent admirers was Prince Albert I of Belgium, but he was pressured by his uncle, King Leopold II, to break off the engagement to avoid straining relations with the French Republic.

Marriage and Title

In 1899, Isabella married her cousin, Prince Jean of Orléans, the son of Robert, Duke of Chartres. After their wedding, Isabella and her husband received the titles of Duchess and Duke of Guise from Isabella's brother, Philippe, Orléanist pretender to the French throne.

Family and Philanthropy

Over the years, the couple had four children: Isabella (1900-1983), Françoise (1902-1953), Anne (1906-1986), and Henri (1908-1999). The family resided in Paris and at their estate in Le Nouvion-en-Thiérache. In Morocco, they purchased an extensive property, including the "Palace of the Duchess of Guise" (present-day Riad Hotel), where they played a pivotal role in the region's development.

Political Activism and Refuge

In 1926, after the death of Isabella's brother, her husband became the head of the House of Orléans, prompting their return to Europe. They settled in Belgium and actively supported the Orléanist cause in France. While her husband engaged in political activities, Isabella dedicated her time to charitable work.

World War II and Return to Morocco

With the outbreak of World War II, the couple returned to Morocco, where her husband passed away a year later. Undeterred, Isabella continued her philanthropic efforts, establishing an orphanage for underprivileged children. Thanks to the close relationship between the House of Orléans and the Moroccan royal family, Isabella and her family were allowed to remain in the country after its independence.

Legacy and Passing

Princess Isabella of Orléans, Duchess of Guise, passed away in 1961. Her life was marked by both privilege and adversity, but she remained a symbol of resilience, dedication, and compassion. She left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate today.