Buckingham Palace has released a previously unseen photo of Queen Elizabeth II with some of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to commemorate what would have been her 97th birthday. The photo was taken by the Princess of Wales during the family’s annual summer holiday at Balmoral.
The image shows the Queen with her youngest grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lady Louise Windsor, the Earl of Wessex, is standing behind the sofa along with the now 15-year-old earl. Mia Tindall, who is holding her baby brother, Lucas, is sitting beside the Queen. On the other side of the Queen, Savannah Phillips, her eldest great-grandchild, is seated. Meanwhile, the rest of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren are standing, including Lena Tindall, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Isla Phillips, and Prince Louis.
Notably missing from the photograph were August Brooksbank, Sienna Mapelli Mozzi, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet. However, the photo still captured a beautiful moment in the Queen’s life, showcasing her surrounded by her family.
Earlier in the day, the royal family’s social media accounts paid tribute to the late Queen on her birthday, sharing a photo of her attending the Ceremony of the Keys in Edinburgh in 2022. The caption reads: “Today we remember the incredible life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, on what would have been her 97th birthday.”
The post goes on to describe the Queen’s extraordinary life, including how she unexpectedly became queen at the age of 25. Her reign lasted over 70 years, making her the longest-reigning monarch in British history. In addition, the post highlights her historic Platinum Jubilee, making her the only monarch to ever celebrate such a milestone.
Queen Elizabeth II passed away at the age of 96 in September 2022. Her funeral was held on September 19, 2022, at Westminster Abbey in London, followed by a committal service at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. She was laid to rest alongside her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, at King George VI Memorial Chapel.
The release of the previously unseen photograph of the Queen with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren serves as a reminder of the joy and love that she shared with her family. Despite her incredible achievements, she remained devoted to her family, and the photo captures a precious moment that will be cherished by her loved ones for years to come.