The Engagement of Prince Alexander of Yugoslavia and Princess Maria Pia of Savoy was announced at the Château de Merlinge in Switzerland on this day in 1954, 70 years ago, right after the Princess’ 20th Birthday.

The Italian and Yugoslavian Royal Families announced the Engagement of Prince Alexander of Yugoslavia, son of Prince Paul of Yugoslavia and  Princess Olga of Greece and Denmark, and Princess Maria Pia of Savoy, daughter of King Umberto II of Italy and Princess Marie Jose of Belgium, at the Château de Merlinge in Switzerland, the residence of Queen Marie Jose.

From L-R; The Prince of Naples, Princess Maria Pia of Savoy, Prince Alexander of Yugoslavia, Princess Maria Gabriella of Savoy, Princess Maria Beatrice of Savoy, Queen Marie José of Italy, Princess Elisabeth of Yugoslavia, Princess Olga of Yugoslavia, Prince Paul of Yugoslavia, and King Umberto II of Italy.

Prince Alexander of Yugoslavia married Princess Maria Pia of Savoy at Cascais in Portugal in February 1955.

Ahead of the Wedding, a spectacular Gala Reception was held at the Palace Hotel of Estoril.

There was also another Gala Reception held at the Castro Guimarães Museum in Cascais.

Ivy Wreath Tiara

Diamond Kokoshnik Tiara

Savoy Ears of Wheat and Flower Tiara

 Savoy-Aosta Tiara

Queen Olga’s Diamond Rivière

Emerald Earrings

Queen Margherita’s Musy Tiara