The former Greek royal family has taken a historic step toward reconciliation with the nation’s republican system, formally applying for Greek citizenship 50 years after the abolition of the monarchy.
This move, marked by the acknowledgment of the country’s republican government and the adoption of a new surname, signifies the closing of a contentious chapter in Greece’s modern history.
A Historical Shift: From Monarchy to Republic
Greece’s monarchy was officially abolished by a nationwide referendum in December 1974, a pivotal moment following the collapse of a seven-year military dictatorship. The vote decisively endorsed a republican system, marking the end of the royal family’s role in Greece’s governance.
The late King Constantine II, the country’s last reigning monarch, and his family lived in exile for decades, primarily in London. Constantine’s return to Greece as a private citizen in his later years symbolized a personal reconciliation but did not ease tensions surrounding the monarchy’s legacy.
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In 1994, a legal dispute over the royal estate resulted in the revocation of the family’s Greek citizenship. This decision was compounded by their reluctance to renounce any claims to the Greek throne or adopt the surname Glucksburg, a name tied to their German ancestry.
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— Ελληνικη Βασιλικη Οικογενεια Greek Royal Family (@GreekRoyal_Fami) December 18, 2024
The family viewed the surname as undermining their Greek identity and heritage, adding complexity to their relationship with the state and people of Greece.
A Landmark Move: Citizenship Application
The recent announcement of the family’s application for Greek citizenship marks a significant milestone. Interior Ministry official Athanasios Balerpas hailed the development as a resolution to “a historically pending matter,” emphasizing the importance of moving forward as a united nation.
Family members signed a declaration on Thursday acknowledging the republican government, a critical gesture symbolizing their acceptance of Greece’s political reality.
The choice to adopt the surname “De Grece” – French for “of Greece” – underscores their commitment to identifying as Greek while distancing themselves from titles or names linked to foreign lineages.
Although officials have not disclosed the names of all applicants, Greek media reported that the late King Constantine’s five children – Alexia, Pavlos, Nikolaos, Theodora, and Philippos – along with five of his grandchildren, are among those seeking citizenship.
Navigating Controversies: Names and Identity
The decision to adopt “De Grece” as a surname has sparked debate among political circles. Lawmakers from center-left and left-wing parties have questioned the appropriateness of the name, arguing that it could be perceived as a title rather than a conventional family name. However, these objections did not extend to the royal family’s right to reclaim citizenship.
The controversy surrounding the surname reflects broader tensions over the monarchy’s historical role and the implications of its return to Greek society.
Critics suggest that the family’s refusal to adopt the state-assigned Glucksburg name, combined with their preference for “De Grece,” highlights an ongoing struggle to balance their royal heritage with their modern identity.
Despite these debates, the move has been widely seen as an opportunity for reconciliation. The publication of the citizenship decision in the government gazette will allow the family to apply for Greek passports and state identity cards, formalizing their reintegration into Greek society.
Moving Forward: Reconciliation and Legacy
The royal family’s decision to embrace Greece’s republican system marks a turning point in their relationship with the nation. By accepting the realities of the modern Greek state, they signal a willingness to leave behind the contentious legacy of the monarchy and engage with the country on equal terms.
This reconciliation comes at a time when Greece seeks to consolidate its identity as a republic while acknowledging its historical complexities. The royal family’s acknowledgment of the republican government provides an opportunity for the nation to heal lingering divisions and focus on a shared future.
For many Greeks, the family’s return represents more than a personal decision; it is a symbolic act of unity and closure. By adopting Greek citizenship and a new surname, the former royals have taken a step toward redefining their place in the nation’s history and society.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏