Bonnie Prince Charles, also known as Charles Edward Stuart, is ultimately buried in the crypt of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, Rome.
A Journey to His Final Rest
Bonnie Prince Charles died in Rome in 1788 at the age of 67, succumbing to a stroke. His burial journey involved two distinct locations:
- Initial Burial: Following his death, he was first interred in Frascati Cathedral, located near Rome. This initial burial site held personal significance as his younger brother, Henry Benedict Stuart, was the Cardinal-Bishop of Frascati at the time.
- Re-interment: His remains were later moved and re-buried in the crypt of St. Peter's Basilica within Vatican City. In this hallowed ground, he rests alongside other key figures of the Stuart lineage, including his father, James Francis Edward Stuart (often referred to as the "Old Pretender"), and his brother, Henry Benedict Stuart. This re-interment solidified their collective final resting place in a prominent and historically significant location.
The tomb in St. Peter's Basilica serves as the enduring memorial for these last direct claimants of the Jacobite cause, reflecting their historical prominence and their deep ties to the Catholic Church.
Burial Timeline
To summarize the movement of Bonnie Prince Charles's remains:
| Event | Year | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Death | 1788 | Rome, Italy | Died from a stroke |
| Initial Burial | 1788 | Frascati Cathedral, Italy | His brother served as Cardinal there |
| Re-interment | Later | Crypt of St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City | Buried with his father and brother |
