Princess Antonia: A Life of Duty and Devotion

In the tapestry of European nobility, the Thurn und Taxis family has long been a prominent thread. While many members have graced headlines with their public lives, the story of Princesses Margarete and Antonia von Thurn und Taxis offers a more intimate glimpse into a life lived in quiet devotion and shared experience. For over eight decades, these sisters, born into a storied aristocratic lineage, shared a profound bond, weathering the storms of history together from their home on the picturesque shores of Lake Starnberg.

A Century of Shared Existence

The lives of Margarete and Antonia were intertwined from their very beginnings. Born at Hohenberg Castle in Seeshaupt, Margarete arrived in 1933, followed three years later by Antonia. Their childhood unfolded within the grand estate, a testament to their family's heritage. However, as the castle grew too vast for their needs, they transitioned in 1999 to a custom-built wooden house nearby, a cosy "Austragshäusl" or retirement home, as Antonia affectionately calls it.

Their journey together was marked by a decision uncommon for their time and social standing: neither sister married. In a candid interview with SZ-Magazin in 2011, Margarete explained their choice, stating, "Because everyone was different. Everyone not like us." In an era where marriage was often expected, particularly within aristocratic circles, their unmarried status was a deliberate and perhaps even a bold statement of individuality.

Beyond Titles: Professions and Passions

Instead of pursuing traditional marital paths, both sisters forged their own professional identities. Antonia honed her skills to become a master tailor for women, while Margarete dedicated herself to the care of infants as a neonatal nurse. Following the passing of their father, they took on the stewardship of the forest south of Lake Starnberg, an inheritance that shaped their responsibilities. "I took over the forest, my sister the hunting," Antonia recalls, highlighting their complementary roles.

Their distinct contributions were even acknowledged by their more public-facing relative, Gloria, Princess of Thurn and Taxis, who once described Margarete and Antonia's "modern attitude" as "cool" in an interview with the Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger. This praise underscores their unconventional yet admirable approach to life.

A Sisterly Bond Forged in Care

Antonia paints a vivid picture of her late sister, Margarete, as a deeply compassionate and helpful individual. "She was a very helpful person," Antonia shares. "She took care of the grandparents when they were old and sick, and in the end, the sisters also nursed their parents." Margarete's nurturing spirit extended to her family, where she assisted in numerous births, drawing on her skills as a neonatal nurse. She also provided postnatal care, embodying a spirit of unwavering support. "She was ready to support anyone who needed it," Antonia adds.

Their shared life was a testament to their harmonious cohabitation. "We always got along very well," the 83-year-old reflects. Even when disagreements arose, their ability to communicate openly ensured reconciliation. "Then we understood each other again." This remarkable understanding is undoubtedly a key factor in their lifelong companionship. While there were periods of separation, such as when Antonia worked in Munich as a tailor, their connection remained strong, and they always found their way back to each other.

A Quiet Life Away from the Spotlight

Affectionately known to each other as "Daisy" (the English equivalent of Margarete) and "Toni," the sisters maintained a uniquely courtly tradition of addressing each other in the third person. While they didn't share many common hobbies, their life was far from devoid of joy. They led an understated, almost reclusive existence by Lake Starnberg, a stark contrast to the public personas of some other family members. Despite their preference for privacy, they cherished their social connections, often attending events at the family's Regensburg castle as long as Margarete was able. "We had and fortunately still have many friends," Antonia says.

Facing Adversity Together

As the years progressed, Margarete's health began to decline. A diagnosis of colon cancer in 2004 marked the beginning of a series of health challenges. By the end of the previous year, Margarete had spent eight weeks in the hospital, enduring significant suffering, as Antonia recounts. In a poignant act of love and care, Antonia brought her sister home for her final Christmas. "She was able to experience her last Christmas here," Antonia states tearfully.

Shortly after, Margarete passed away. While she had some time to prepare for her departure, the reality of being alone has left Antonia with a profound sense of loss. "But of course, it is a strange feeling to be alone now." The funeral service for Margarete Princess of Thurn und Taxis was held on Saturday at 11 am at St. Michael in Seeshaupt, a quiet farewell for a woman who lived a life of deep commitment and unwavering sisterly love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who were Margarete and Antonia von Thurn und Taxis?
They were sisters from the prominent Thurn und Taxis noble family who lived together for most of their lives near Lake Starnberg, Germany. They were known for their close bond and their decision not to marry.

Q2: What were their professions?
Antonia was a master tailor for women, and Margarete was a neonatal nurse.

Q3: Why did they choose not to marry?

Q4: How did they describe their relationship?

Q5: What was their lifestyle like?

The legacy of Princesses Margarete and Antonia von Thurn und Taxis is one of enduring sisterhood, professional dedication, and a life lived with quiet dignity. Their story serves as a reminder of the profound connections that can shape a life, even away from the glare of public attention.