Dukes and Princes

History and Heritage of Europe’s top aristocrats

On this site you will find short histories about the families of the princes and dukes of Europe, from the middle ages to the present

You will also find information about the heritage these families left behind, some still worth a visit, some long vanished.

The Dukes of GuiseApril 6, 2020
The dukes of Guise are famous primarily as leaders of the ultra-Catholic side in the French Wars of Religion of the late 16th century. One of the most famous political assassinations in European history is undoubtedly the double murder ofContinue reading “The Dukes of Guise”
Dukes of RutlandApril 10, 2020
The dukes of Rutland are not the most famous dukes in British history. But as successful ducal families go, the Manners family got it right: they combined a solid land base with royal favour, regular service in politics and theContinue reading “Dukes of Rutland”
Best Ever Scottish Ducal DriveApril 10, 2020
Have you ever wanted to just jump in your car, head north, and visits six castles held by Scottish nobles? I’m sure you have. That’s what I did nearly twenty years ago, when I took a break while awaiting theContinue reading “Best Ever Scottish Ducal Drive”