Grand Duke Vladimir Kirillovich Romanov, heir to the Russian Imperial throne, was interred in a royal crypt Friday, completing a journey that began with his birth in exile 74 years ago. His widow, Leonida, daughter Maria and grandson Georgy wept as the coffin was lowered into a tomb beneath the floor of the small chapel inside the Peter and Paul Fortress on the banks of the Neva River.
About 150 people attended the Mass, conducted by Metropolitan Ioann of St. Petersburg.Hundreds of sunbathers oblivious to the funeral basked on the riverbank outside the fortress, enjoying the bright sun at the end of a long chilly spring.
The grand duke, who was born in Finland and lived in France most of his life, visited Russia only once, last November. He died in Miami on April 21.