The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6th, capturing the hearts of royal enthusiasts worldwide. While the world has been captivated by glimpses of the adorable baby Archie, his birth certificate offers a fascinating glimpse into the details surrounding his arrival.
Contrary to popular belief, Archie was not born at Frogmore Cottage, the Sussexes’ new home. Instead, the birth certificate reveals that the seventh in line to the British throne was born at the prestigious Portland Hospital in Westminster, London.
Image of the Portland Hospital
Although Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, had expressed a desire for a home birth, the birth certificate confirms that Archie’s arrival took place in a hospital setting. This decision, while a departure from initial plans, reflects a practical approach to welcoming her first child at the age of 37.
The Portland Hospital, renowned for its luxurious private care, has been a popular choice for royal births in the past. Notably, it is not the same hospital where Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, posed for iconic photographs with her three newborns.
Image of Kate Middleton with her newborn
Meghan’s decision to choose a different hospital highlights a desire for a more private and personalized experience. Instead of the traditional post-birth photo call, the Sussexes opted for a more intimate introduction, waiting two days to debut their son to the world.
The birth certificate lists “Rachel Meghan Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex” as the mother and “Princess of the United Kingdom” as her occupation, aligning with the information provided by Kate Middleton for her children’s birth certificates.
Since his arrival, baby Archie has been introduced to prominent members of the royal family, including his great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. Reports suggest that he also met his uncle and aunt, Prince William and Kate Middleton, shortly after his birth.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex celebrate their one-year wedding anniversary, the arrival of their son marks a significant milestone in their journey as a couple. The birth certificate, with its intricate details, provides a tangible record of this momentous occasion, adding another chapter to the ever-evolving narrative of the British royal family.
