Prince Philip’s Mother Was Born A Royal, But Her Life Was Filled With Tragedy

After Prince Philip’s passing, many documentaries aired telling us all about his fascinating life. And yet many people still probably aren’t aware of the dark secret lurking in his past. That’s because the astonishing life of his mother, Princess Alice of Battenberg, is not a plotline covered in The Crown – or anywhere else. Alice’s story was far removed from the entitlements and trappings of royal association, you see, and will almost certainly leave you stunned.

A not-so-glamorous life

Of course, we know that royals aren’t immune to tragedy – just ask Princes William and Harry. Yet Princess Alice of Battenberg saw more than her fair share. And many of the hardships she faced were brought about by remarkable choices and a unique character that saw the royal live a life largely free from pampered privilege.

A special birth

Yet Alice’s birth immediately set her apart from regular mortals. That’s because none other than Queen Victoria was in attendance at her delivery. The year was 1885, during Victoria’s legendary reign, and Alice arrived as the monarch’s great-grandchild.

Born in a castle

The venue of Alice’s birth was no less prestigious: the Tapestry Room at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England. But she was a child born to German royalty, and due to the mechanics of European nobility she was also deeply entwined with the British monarchy. You see, Alice’s maternal grandmother was Queen Victoria’s second daughter, Princess Alice of the United Kingdom. Her father was also descended from royalty.

Surrounded by royalty

Yes, Alice’s dad was Prince Louis of Battenberg, and her mom, Princess Victoria of Hesse and by Rhine, was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. So the young princess was given six godparents – all of whom were European royalty. Meanwhile, she was christened Victoria Alice Elizabeth Julia Marie in April 1885.