King Zwelithini funeral: Who is ‘the only European monarch’ in attendance?

The memorial service for King Zwelithini has taken place on Thursday, as the Zulu nation grieves for its much-loved leader. The deceased monarch will now be planted, rather than buried, as scores of dignitaries line-up to pay their respects to him. However, there was one face in the crowd that drew more attention than most – that of Princess Charlene of Monaco.

Princess Charlene of Monaco attended the funeral today of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini of KwaZulu-Natal, a providence of South Africa.

Princess Charlene, who was raised in South Africa, was good friends with the late King. And I believe the only European Royal to attend. pic.twitter.com/kZrpFASkgV

— Gert's Royals (@Gertsroyals) March 18, 2021

Who was the only European monarch in attendance?

She became the top trending topic on Twitter on 18 March, as an oblivious generation wondered who the sole European monarch in attendance was. To many, she will need no introduction, but to others – you’ve got some catching up to do.

• – The Zimbabwean-born Charlene Wittstock moved to Benoni when she was 12.

• – She represented South Africa as a swimmer at the Olympic Games, and was a long-reigning domestic champion.

• – Aged 33, she married Prince Albert II of Monaco in 2011. She has held a royal title for the past 10 years.

• – In the past decade, the royal’s foundation has gone from strength to strength, raising millions for ‘water safety causes’.

• – You can learn more about the work Princess Charlene does along with her foundation here.

The relationship between King Zwelithini and Princess Charlene

King Zwelithini and Princess Charlene struck-up an enduring friendship during their time as royals. Indeed, the Zulu ruler attended the former Olympian’s wedding almost a decade ago. That act of respect and dignity has stayed with the Monaco-based monarch, and she committed herself to paying the family’s respects to the king – in a dignified and solemn manner.

Joining the nation in mourning the loss of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini as he is laid to rest today, Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco flew in to attend the funeral. The Foundation wishes to convey our condolences to King Goodwill's family and friends. pic.twitter.com/mfO7wbRpyC

— Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation SAfrica (@PCMFSouthAfrica) March 18, 2021