Ernst von Hannover is once again at the center of the European media spotlight. This time, not because of a controversy, but for something much more intimate and human. The German magazine Bunte has uncovered an unknown and traumatic secret in the prince's life.
The German aristocrat spent more than two weeks hospitalized at the Ruber Clinic in Madrid. For much of that time, he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. His condition was delicate, and the recovery was uncertain.
On April 21, early in the afternoon, the doctors decided to discharge him. His return home did not mean the end of the treatment. On the contrary, a new stage full of care and constant attention began.
Since his discharge from the hospital, Ernst is being cared for at home by a healthcare professional. Bunte confirms this, having had access to detailed information about his progress. The priority now is for him to keep calm and maintain a slow pace.
Ernst's current state, according to Germany
Although the prince has shown improvement, his physical problems still persist. As a result of a hip operation performed at the beginning of the year, he needs to rely on a cane or a walker. Therefore, his outings are controlled and brief.
However, Ernst tries to keep active as much as possible. He doesn't want to remain isolated and seeks to resume simple routines. Walking around his home helps him feel useful and autonomous.
The doctors recommend caution, as this 2025 has been especially tough for him. Not only because of the recent hospitalization but also due to the multiple health episodes that have tested his resilience. The priority is to avoid new relapses.
One of the most talked-about moments occurred just after he was discharged. Ernst was seen entering a Madrid florist. There, he bought one of the largest and most striking bouquets in the window.
The reason? To thank his partner, Claudia Stilianopoulos, for all the affection shown during his days of hospitalization. A gesture that, according to those close to him, deeply moved the daughter of Pitita Ridruejo.
Claudia was alert to him throughout the hospital stay. The restrictions in the ICU prevented her from seeing him frequently. Therefore, she lived days of anguish, relying solely on medical reports.
Latest news about Ernst von Hannover
Ernst and Claudia have maintained a romantic relationship since 2021. They met during a party in Ibiza and felt an immediate connection. Shortly after, they decided to start a life together in Madrid.
He was attracted to her character, her culture, and her artistic sensitivity. Meanwhile, she found in Ernst someone vulnerable and authentic. Since then, they have built a discreet but solid routine in the capital.
Additionally, Madrid offers the prince significant emotional closeness. His eldest son, Christian von Hannover, lives there with his wife Sassa de Osma and their three children. This family bond was also key to settling in Spain.
After the bouquet, there was another gesture full of symbolism. Ernst wanted to culminate his recovery with a special meal at the Rosewood Hotel restaurant. It is one of his favorite places, where he feels calm and well cared for.
The meeting was not only a tribute to Claudia. It was also a tribute to himself and the effort made to move forward. Despite his problems, Ernst wanted to show that he is still standing.
The scene was described by witnesses as simple and serene. Without excesses or photographers, just a couple celebrating a moment of relief. A moment of happiness in the midst of a tumultuous year.
Germany closely follows his progress
In his country of origin, the news has caused a great impact. The German media have reported with surprise this intimate testimony about the prince's health. Especially due to the lack of official information during his hospitalization.
The discretion with which the entire process was handled has drawn attention. Only now, with the revelation of Bunte, has the severity of what happened become known. The admission to the ICU was a critical moment that almost no one knew about.
Ernst von Hannover, at 71 years old, remains a controversial and enigmatic figure. But this time, the focus is on his fragility and his personal environment. An unknown facet that has moved even his detractors.