The Coronation Cathedral in Alba Iulia, Romania, played host to a significant family event as Prince Michael of Romania was baptized in a ceremony attended by around 100 guests from Romania and Europe. This historic cathedral, built between 1921 and 1922, holds a special place in the hearts of the Romanian royal family, as it was the site of the coronation of Michael's great-great-great grandparents, King Ferdinand and Queen Maria of Romania, on October 22, 1922.
The baptism of Prince Michael marked a momentous occasion for the young prince and his family, with his parents, Prince Nicholas and Princess Alina-Maria, beaming with pride as they celebrated this milestone in their son's life. The choice of the Coronation Cathedral was particularly meaningful, as it allowed Michael to connect with his family's rich history and heritage. The baptism was attended by Michael's maternal grandparents, Heinz and Rodica Binder, as well as his paternal aunt, Karina de Roumanie, and other notable members of the Cantacuzino and Ghyka noble families1.
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| Alina-Maria with Michael, Karina, and Nicholas with Maria Alexandra. |
Last Saturday, 18 June, Prince Michael of Romania was baptised at the Coronation Cathedral (Catedrala Încoronării) in Alba Iulia. The cathedral was built between 1921-1922; it was the setting for the coronation of Michael's great-great-great grandparents King Ferdinand and Queen Maria of Romania as monarchs of Greater Romania on 22 October 1922. Michael's father Prince Nicholas noted: "It is a moment of great joy, it is a very important moment in our son's life. It is very important to keep in touch with history and of course with family. The name Mihai is a special name, of course in memory of my grandfather. It is also the name of a great saint, and that was important to us. I'm Mihai too, I have a cousin Mihai, it's a family name, so it's not only the king's name."
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| The happy parents with their little boy. |
Michael's godparents are Liviu and Simona Popescu. The Popescus were the sponsors for Princess Alina-Maria of Romania during her and Nicholas's religious wedding in 2018.
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| A united family: Mihai Binder, Rodica Binder holding Princess Maria Alexandra, Princess Alina-Maria holding Prince Michael, Prince Nicholas, Karina de Roumanie, and Heinz Binder. |
Around 100 guests from Romania and Europe came to Alba Iulia for the baptism. The maternal grandparents of Prince Michael, Heinz and Rodica Binder, were there to celebrate this momentous occasion. Michael's maternal uncle, Mihai Binder, and his paternal aunt, Karina de Roumanie, were also on hand to take part in this special family event. Members of the Cantacuzino and Ghyka noble families were in attendance as well.
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| The baptism of Nicholas of Romania
(left to right) King Michael, Crown Princess Margarita, Queen Anne, Princess Helen holding her son Prince Nicholas, and Dr. Robin Medforth-Mills |
When Michael's father Nicholas was baptised on 8 June 1985 in Switzerland, Nicholas received as his godparents the following family and friends: King Michael of Romania; Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester; the Prince of Asturias (now King Felipe VI of Spain); Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Denmark; Princess Sophie of Romania; Countess Charles de Breteuil (née Solange de Ganay); Dick Stern, Sophie Maris, Paul Contomichalos, Flora Deacon, and Mrs Jean Boissevian. The baptism of Michael's great-grandfather King (then Prince) Michael took place on 22 January 1922 at the Royal Palace in Bucharest.
Former Prince Nicolae baptized his son at the Coronation Cathedral in Alba Iulia. The child is named after King Michael
The baptism of Prince Michael of Romania at the Coronation Cathedral in Alba Iulia marks a significant milestone in the young prince's life, as well as a moment of great joy for his family. This historic event not only celebrates the prince's spiritual growth but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Romanian royal family. As we reflect on this special occasion, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring the traditions that have shaped our history.
As we bid farewell to this heartwarming story, we are left with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share in the joy of Prince Michael's baptism. We hope that this article has provided a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Romanian royal family, and that it has inspired readers to explore further the fascinating stories and events that have shaped the course of European history. As we move forward, we are reminded that the bonds of family and the power of tradition continue to play a vital role in shaping our identities and guiding our values. May the spirit of Prince Michael's baptism continue to inspire us all, and may we always cherish the memories and lessons that come from our shared cultural heritage.
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