Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly bought a house in Portugal, sparking speculation that the couple could spend more time in Europe and possibly rekindle ties with the royal family. This unexpected move has raised questions about what it could mean for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s family dynamic, especially as tensions with Prince William and King Charles continue to simmer.
A key detail in this development is the connection Harry shares with his cousin, Princess Eugenie, who is already enjoying a retreat in Portugal with her husband, Jack Brooksbank, and their two sons, August and Ernest. Despite strained relationships with other royals, Harry has maintained a warm bond with Eugenie, and the proximity of their new home could suggest a desire to spend more time as a family.
Jennie Bond, former BBC royal reporter, spoke exclusively to The mirror about the possible implications of this measure. “I think it perhaps suggests that they DO want their children to meet at least some of their family in the UK,” he explained. Bond noted that this decision could be especially beneficial for Harry and Meghan’s children, Archie and Lilibet, by allowing them to spend more time with their cousins.
“It will be good for Archie and Lilibet to spend time with their little cousins, and Eugenie will continue to be an important link between Harry and the rest of his family,” Bond added. He also questioned the couple’s decision to buy a property rather than stay with the family, given Harry’s previous comments about financial problems. “I’m not sure why they feel they need to BUY a place…rather than just stay with Jack and Eugenie or rent a place, but it suggests they intend to spend more time on this side of the Atlantic.”
Bond concluded that this move could help Sussex children balance their American education with an understanding of their European roots, a positive step towards maintaining their connection to the United Kingdom.
The reported purchase comes later Harry and Meghan left Frogmore Cottage last year, following King Charles’ request that they leave. The couple, who moved to California after retiring from royal duties in 2020, had previously been gifted the Windsor property by the late Queen following their wedding in 2018. Now, with a new European base, speculation is growing that The Sussexes may be changing course in their personal and family lives.