As the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie, set foot in Malta to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the nation’s independence, royal enthusiasts are reminded of Meghan Markle‘s intriguing connection to this Mediterranean island.
Her assertions regarding her Maltese lineage have recently come under scrutiny, particularly with the current royal visit drawing attention to the historical ties between Malta and the British monarchy.
Back in 2015, during an appearance on the Rachel Ray Show, Meghan expressed her excitement about visiting Malta, eager to explore her family roots.
She reminisced about her luxurious stay at a high-end hotel, a delightful vineyard tour, and even a local photo shoot arranged by Malta’s tourist board.
To top it off, she was said to have been commissioned to pen an article for Elle magazine, capturing her experiences on the island.
In her lifestyle blog, The Tig, Meghan elaborated on her fascination with Malta, painting a picture of deep personal connection.
However, genealogical research later revealed that her ties to the island were less profound than she initially suggested.
It turns out her great-great-grandmother, Mary Byrd, had only a fleeting relationship with Malta, having lived there briefly in the mid-1800s before moving to Canada.
This revelation casts a shadow over Meghan’s narrative, suggesting her journey to Malta was more about personal branding than genuine heritage exploration.
In stark contrast, Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie’s visit is steeped in authenticity, showcasing the rich history and enduring connections Malta shares with the UK, which Meghan once claimed to delve into.
Upon their arrival, the couple acknowledged Malta’s significant role in royal history, notably as the place where the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip spent time as newlyweds.
The emotional weight of this visit adds depth to their engagements, making it more than just a ceremonial affair.
Their itinerary kicked off with the official opening of the Submariner’s Walkway in Valletta, a tribute to Malta’s maritime past.
Duchess Sophie turned heads in a vibrant orange floral midi skirt paired with a stylish white blouse, embodying the elegance expected from royal appearances.
The couple’s schedule is filled with meaningful activities that emphasize the shared heritage between Malta and the UK.
This trip is not merely a duty; it’s a celebration of lasting bonds that have stood the test of time.
On October 7th, Buckingham Palace announced their four-day excursion to Malta, highlighting the significance of this royal engagement.
The British High Commission for Malta kept the public informed via social media, showcasing the warm welcome the couple received from President Miriam Spiteri de Bono at the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta.
Additionally, they were greeted by Prime Minister Robert Abella and his wife, Lydia Abella, further underscoring the importance of this royal visit.
As the Duke and Duchess immerse themselves in the culture and history of Malta, the contrast with Meghan Markle’s earlier claims becomes increasingly pronounced.
While the royal couple engages in genuine celebrations of heritage, Markle’s narrative seems to fade into the background, raising crucial questions about authenticity and the framing of personal stories in the public sphere.
As royal watchers closely follow Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie’s heartfelt interactions with the Maltese people, lingering doubts about Meghan Markle’s claims continue to surface.
The visit not only honors Malta’s rich history but also serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding personal narratives in the royal spotlight.
