Anne-Marie of Greece celebrated her 80th birthday on Sunday, August 30, 2026, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and loved ones at a family dinner held in her honour.
The highlight of the evening was a speech delivered by her eldest son, Pavlos De Gres, who spoke on behalf of the whole family with a deeply personal tribute.
In a message later published by Andreas Meggos, a former associate of the office of the former Greek royal family, Pavlos reflected on his mother's life path, her resilience in times of joy and hardship, and her deep relationship with Greece.
Pavlos said that throughout her life, his mother had shown her family that true strength is quiet, resting in grace, courage, kindness, and an unceasing love for people and the environment. He noted that despite facing numerous challenges over the years, she had remained steadfast, generous, and constantly present for her family.
He emphasised that she had loved Greece as her homeland and chose to remain in the country following the death of her husband, King Constantine II. He added that she had served her duty in life with rare dignity and grace, always placing others before herself and facing each new chapter with courage and a unique sense of responsibility.
Concluding his tribute, Pavlos said the family was celebrating not only her milestone year but also the remarkable woman she was, describing her as their mother, their constant support, their inspiration, and the heart of their family. He wished her a happy birthday and expressed gratitude for her presence and love.
Family photos and public tributes
Shortly before the family gathering, Marie-Chantal, the wife of Pavlos De Gres, also marked the 80th birthday publicly by sharing two emotional family photographs online.
The initial picture posted by Marie-Chantal was a rare black-and-white portrait of her mother-in-law from earlier years.
The second image captured a modern family scene, showing Anne-Marie smiling while surrounded by her nine grandchildren on the occasion of her 80th birthday.
Life and background of the former queen
Anne-Marie was born Princess Anne-Marie of Denmark in Copenhagen in August 1946, as the youngest daughter of King Frederick IX of Denmark and Queen Ingrid. Her elder sister is Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, who reigned for over five decades before her abdication.
She married King Constantine II of the Hellenes in September 1964, becoming Queen of Greece at the age of 18. Following political upheaval and the abolition of the Greek monarchy in 1974, the royal couple spent decades living in exile, primarily in London, before returning to settle permanently in Greece in their later years.
King Constantine II died in January 2023 at the age of 82. Since his passing, Anne-Marie has continued to reside in Greece, where her family regularly joins her for milestones and family reunions.
