The Palatinate Of The Rhine.
The present Count-Palantine of the Rhine is Ludwig III/ He is closely related to the branch of his family that holds the Landgravate of Hesse-Darmstadt, now part of Bavaria, and he is the uncle of King Ludwig II. From his capital at Speyer, he rules one of the biggest wine producing areas of the Germanies.
Extracts from reports to the Imperial and Royal Foreign Office
from Consul-Extraordinary to the Rhenish Principalities
Ruprecht, Freiherr von Schleissen - November 1872
....On Tuesday last, I had the great pleasure of visiting Prince Frederich of Prussia at his castle of Rheinstein near Bingen. The Prince is a most likeable eccentric (despite being Prussian) and has a romantic longing for the Chivalry of the Medieval period. When at home in his quite newly restored castle, he, his family and their retainers continually dress in medieval costume. I gained a deal of respect from the Prince by joining in this affectation during my brief stay. I have been invited back for a tournament which he intends to hold in May next year. I think my Aide, Major Strom of the Lancers, could be persuaded to participate on behalf of our nation....
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