The Associazione Culturale Neoborbonica Commemorates the 120th Anniversary of the Death of King Francesco II di Borbone
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A solemn prayer service was held in the Basilica Santa Chiara
Photos courtesy of Francesco De Crescenzo
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In commemoration of the 120th Anniversary of the death of King Francesco II di Borbone, members of the Movimento Neoborbonico held a two-day celebration in Naples, which saw the participation of the Knights and Ladies of the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of Saint George, the Fondazione il Giglio, cadets from the Nunziatella military academy, and HRH Carlo di Borbone, Duke of Castro and head of the Royal House of Bourbon Two Sicilies.
Beginning on Friday, November 21st, with a visit to the Royal Bourbon Chapel at the Basilica Santa Chiara, Prince Carlo and attendees paid homage to the last King of the Two Sicilies. During the solemnities, dignitaries placed flowers on his tomb and recalled the tragic figure of Francesco II, "the first of millions of southern emigrants."
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| Celebrants take a stroll, or passeggiata, through the streets of Naples |
After the prayer service, celebrants walked from the Basilica to the Via San Gregorio Armeno, the world-renowned center for artisan workshops specializing in the Neapolitan crèche. While admiring the monuments and touring the shops Prince Carlo was presented with several gifts, including a S.S.C. Napoli necktie and a small bust of Francesco II by master sculptor Errico Napolitano. As word spread of his presence, large crowds gathered in the streets, chanting, "Long live the King." The Prince was clearly touched by the warm reception.
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| Prince Carlo does a little shopping on the Via San Gregorio Armeno |
Afterward, Prince Carlo took part in a charity luncheon for 70 impoverished people. The event was a private affair so as not to embarrass any of the guests. The meal was generously provided by the Constantinian Order of Saint George in the church of Santa Lucia a Mare.
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| Mass was celebrated at the Chiesa di San Ferdinando |
