Munich (Europe Brief News) – Photographer Princess Marianne zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn, known as Mamarazza, died Sunday in Munich at 105 years old. The German Press Agency (DPA) received official confirmation from her family about her passing away.
A Noblewoman Behind the Camera
Her aristocratic roots as a great-great-great-great-granddaughter of Austrian Empress Maria Theresa allowed Princess Marianne to handle her camera in the same refined manner she used to move through high social circles.
During her professional career, Marianne captured photographs of numerous notable figures, including youthful Charles III (Prince of Wales), the great soprano Maria Callas, artist Salvador Dalí and film star Sean Connery.
Her remarkable access to upper-class life developed organically because she shared the same social status as her well-known subjects. The playful nickname “Mamarazza” was bestowed upon her by Princess Caroline of Monaco, who once quipped, “You’re not a paparazzo; you’re a paparazzi.” People began using her chosen nickname because she embodied both approachable kindness and exclusive inner circle connections.
A Life of Elegance and Influence
Princess Marianne stayed active and present in social affairs throughout her advanced age. Princess Marianne spent her days between Munich and Sayn in Rhineland-Palatinate and her time in Fuschl, Austria, for Salzburg Festival events. In recent years, she told family members she wanted to make Sayn her permanent home, which brought everyone great joy.
She had five children and established a heritage of more than 60 descendants between her grandchildren and their following generations. Her daughter-in-law, Gabriela zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn, once remarked, “Her interest was never just in celebrities, but in the fascinating personalities behind them.”
A Legacy of Art and Aristocracy
Through documenting celebrity, Princess Marianne confirmed that her own existence fully embodied historical significance, together with artistic expression and royal splendour. Through her photography, she documented cultural events and her privileged family heritage. A multitude of honours from artistic, cinematic and royal circles will be given during the forthcoming tribute period.
Family members revealed that the princess died peacefully but disclosed no indicators behind her passing, as reported by Bluewin. Plans for her commemoration will honour two aspects of her existence: her artistic achievements, along with her role as a member of a prominent European dynasty.
