Son of Italy’s Last King Dies at 86

Photo Credit: http://www.savoiacanada.ca/the-royal-family.html

Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy, the only son of Italy’s last king, died at age 86 on February 3rd. According to the Royal House of Geneva, he passed away in his home located in Geneva.

Born in Naples, Emanuele departed his home country during his childhood as his father, Umberto II, forcibly left Italy due to the national referendum of 1946, which eliminated the monarchy and created a republic.

By working as a salesman for the Italian Augusta helicopter industry during his young adulthood, Emanuele formed a friendship with the Shah of Iran. Thus in 1971, his wedding took place in Tehran as he married Swiss water-skiing champion Marina Doria. They resided for many years along the shores of Lake Geneva.

Previously restricted from entering the country due to the constitution’s laws against the royal family, Emanuele returned to Italy in November 2002 after parliament lifted the sanction. Emanuele lives on through his wife and son, Emanuele Filberto, who stated in that he would abdicate his claim to the Italian throne in favor of his daughter Vittoria when she would be prepared for the challenge.

Source: Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy, son of Italy’s last king, dies aged 86 | Reuters

-Diego Maldonado