There are several old money European families that have been influential and wealthy for centuries. Here are a few notable examples of European generational wealth.
House of Rothschild
The Rothschild family, originating from Germany, became one of the wealthiest and most powerful banking dynasties in Europe during the 19th century. They established banking businesses across major European cities and played a significant role in financing various governments and infrastructure projects.
House of Grimaldi
The Grimaldi family has been the ruling family of Monaco since the 13th century. They have maintained their wealth and influence through their control over the principality and its lucrative business ventures.
House of Medici
The Medici family, hailing from Florence, Italy, rose to prominence during the Renaissance era as influential bankers and patrons of the arts. They exerted considerable political and economic power, producing several popes and influencing the governance of Florence.
House of Bonaparte
The Bonaparte family rose to prominence with Napoleon Bonaparte, who became Emperor of the French in the early 19th century. They established a dynasty that ruled over France and several other European countries during the Napoleonic era.
House of Habsburg
The Habsburgs were a noble family that originated in Switzerland and rose to power in the Holy Roman Empire. They later became the ruling dynasty of the Austrian Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, spanning much of Central Europe for centuries.
House of Borgia
The Borgia family, originally from Spain, gained immense power and wealth during the Renaissance era. They held positions of influence in the Papal States, with Rodrigo Borgia even becoming Pope Alexander VI.
House of Bourbon
The Bourbon family, originating from France, has a long history and held significant power throughout European history. They ruled over France for several periods, including during the ancien régime, and their branches ruled over Spain, Naples, and Sicily.
House of Este
The Este family was a prominent Italian noble family that ruled over the Duchy of Ferrara in the Renaissance period. They were known for their patronage of the arts and played a vital role in the cultural development of Ferrara.
House of Savoy
The House of Savoy was a ruling dynasty in Italy, with roots dating back to the 11th century. They eventually became the kings of Italy and played a significant role in the unification of Italy in the 19th century.
House of Wittelsbach
The Wittelsbach family is a German noble family that ruled over Bavaria for several centuries. They were influential patrons of the arts and left a lasting architectural legacy in Bavaria, including the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.
These families are just a few examples of old money European families who have had a lasting impact on European history, politics, and culture.
Subscribe
