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Charlotte was born on 23 January 1896 in Luxembourg’s Berg Castle. She became Grand Duchess in 1919 after her sister Marie-Adélaïde stepped down. Charlotte ruled until she abdicated in 1964, making her reign the longest of any Luxembourg monarch since the country became a Grand Duchy in 1815.

A New Beginning

When Charlotte became Grand Duchess, she held a vote to decide if Luxembourg should remain a monarchy. Over three-quarters of the people supported her. Later that year, she married Prince Félix of Bourbon-Parma, and they had six children.

World War II

During World War II, Germany invaded Luxembourg in 1940. Charlotte and her family escaped to keep the country’s government safe. They lived in places like France, Portugal, the UK, and Canada. While in London, Charlotte spoke to the people of Luxembourg through radio broadcasts, offering hope during tough times.

Life After the War

After the war, Charlotte helped make Luxembourg stronger. The country joined important organisations like NATO and the European Economic Community (EEC). Laws were also passed to support workers and families.

Abdication and Legacy

Charlotte handed over the throne to her son, Jean, in 1964. She lived quietly until her death on 9 July 1985. A statue in Luxembourg City honours her as a symbol of strength and patriotism. Charlotte’s reign is remembered for her courage, care for her people, and dedication to making Luxembourg a modern and united country.

Did You Know?

• Charlotte loved gardening and enjoyed maintaining the gardens at her residences, inspiring green spaces in Luxembourg.
• Her family and friends affectionately called her "Lotte."
• While in exile, she enjoyed experimenting with cooking and baking recipes from the countries she visited.
• She appeared in a wartime newsreel in the United States, briefly gaining attention in Hollywood circles.
• She adored animals and had a beloved dog named Toby, often seen with her in official portraits.
• The Luxembourg franc was the country’s currency from 1854 to 2002, except during World War II (1941–1944), when it was replaced under German occupation. After the war, it returned and was used for nearly 60 years before the euro took over. During this time, Charlotte, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, was featured on coins and banknotes, symbolising hope and pride for the nation.

Grand Duchess Charlotte - Issued 1924 Definitive

Grand Duchess Charlotte - Issued 1926 Definitive

Grand Duchess Charlotte - Issued 1944 Definitive

Grand Duchess Charlotte - Issued 1948 Definitive

Grand Duchess Charlotte - Issued 1960 Definitive