Biography

His Highness Prince Germain Henri was born on September 24, 1779, as the son of Prince Pierre (1757-1785) and Anne Landrey (1761-1802). From a young age, he was destined to occupy a position of great importance. Indeed, at the age of 10 in 1789, he succeeded his grandfather, Prince Louis, as the Duke of Royan, assuming the responsibilities and duties that accompany this illustrious title.

The period of the French Revolution marked a major turning point in the life of young Prince Germain. Despite his tender age, he remained loyal to the royal family and continued to support King Louis XVI during the most difficult times. However, with the advent of the Empire under the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte, he made the courageous decision to seek refuge in England with his family, seeking to preserve his integrity and loyalty to the monarchy.

In 1800, the Duke of Royan entered into a prestigious marriage with Angélique de Bauffremont-Courtenay (1779-1834). From this union, three children were born: Prince Germain, the future Duke of Royan, Princess Marie (1808-1884), who was even designated as the presumptive heiress at one point, and Princess Marie-Anne (1810-1819), whose life was unfortunately cut short.

With the restoration of the monarchy in 1815 and the ascension of Louis XVIII to power, the ducal family decided to return to France, determined to rebuild and actively participate in the political and social life of the country. Nine years later, with the King's approval, the Duke of Royan officially established the House of Royan, institutionalized through the deliberation of letters patent. This official recognition attests to the eminent position held by the family within the French nobility.

However, with the establishment of the Second Empire following the coup d'état by Napoleon III in 1851, the Duke of Royan and his children made the difficult decision to settle once again in London. This choice was guided by their unwavering attachment to their principles and the monarchical cause, as well as the desire to protect their integrity and freedom in the face of political upheavals of the time. Unfortunately, Prince Germain passed away in London on July 25, 1853, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty, courage, and commitment to the noble values that have always characterized the House of Royan.