Marbella, Spain – Count Rudi, a prominent figure in Marbella’s social scene, has returned home after a 90-day hospital stay, his wife, Princess María Luisa of Prussia, confirmed Wednesday. The 93-year-old aristocrat, who will celebrate his 94th birthday in September, faced health challenges related to diabetes, kidney issues, and heart problems, but is now recovering at his residence.
“He’s a roble – an oak,” Princess María Luisa told La Razón, describing her husband’s resilience. “He has his ups and downs with diabetes, and we have to keep it controlled.” Count Rudi himself has repeatedly expressed his determination to reach his 100th birthday, aiming to be a “young centenarian” despite his health concerns.
The timing of his recovery coincides with the observance of Semana Santa (Holy Week), a particularly meaningful period for the Count. For 36 years, he served as the hermano mayor (chief brother) of the Cofradía de Santa Marta, the brotherhood of hospitality workers, and remains a devoted participant in the processions. “This year, I also intend to see the procession leave from the church of the Encarnación,” he stated. “I did the same last Holy Week, attending in my wheelchair, which now takes me everywhere.”
Princess María Luisa is also a member of the Cofradía de Santa Marta, a brotherhood known for its inclusivity, welcoming members from all social classes – aristocrats, hoteliers, waiters, and cleaners alike. “This procession is extremely special to us,” she said. “Every year, I would parade with my mantilla and comb accompanying the throne. They are all memories of that endearing Marbella, the smell of incense in its streets, the ornaments and the religiosity with which it is lived.”
The couple’s life together is marked by a deep affection and mutual support. Count Rudi has often praised his wife, stating, “I always say it, but it’s the pure truth. I have the best nurse in the world by my side, of blue blood: my great love, Princess María Luisa, who never leaves me.”
The arrival of his children and grandchildren during Semana Santa adds to the joy of the season. Count Rudi has three grandchildren who bring “war” – playful energy – to the family home, and he enjoys competing with them at rummy. His grandson, Rudi Junior, will develop his First Communion in May.
The Von Schönburg family has a long history in Marbella, with Count Rudi credited with introducing the tradition of “burradas” – donkey rides – for tourists in the Marbella Club. The practice has been revived on Thursdays at the expanded Marbella Club, and the Count hopes to share the experience with his grandchildren.
His daughter, Sophie, is the goddaughter of Queen Sofía of Spain, who has a close relationship with Princess María Luisa. Queen Sofía offered to be Sophie’s godmother when she learned of her birth, after years of hoping for a child. The Queen reportedly greeted the people of Marbella outside the Encarnación church following Sophie’s baptism.
The couple is also preparing for the upcoming wedding of their son, Friedrich von Schönburg, director of the Villamagna hotel in Madrid, to Amanda Lange, whose father is Danish and mother Chilean. The wedding is scheduled for June. Princess María Luisa indicated that, for now, they are content with their dog, Lulu, and are not expecting any new grandchildren.
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