Did They Plant 36 Trees at Diana's Grave?

On August 31, 1997, the world was shaken by the news of Princess Diana's death. The beloved princess had been involved in a car crash in Paris, which claimed her life, along with the lives of her companion Dodi Fayed and the driver Henri Paul. In the aftermath of her tragic passing, a lot of stories and rumors emerged, one of which was the planting of 36 trees at Diana's grave. But did it really happen?

The Origins of the Story

The idea that 36 trees were planted at Diana's grave is believed to have originated from a comment made by her brother, Earl Spencer. In his eulogy at her funeral, he said that she "needed no royal title to generate her particular brand of magic" and that she would "be buried where her ancestors have been buried for generations, at the Spencer family home at Althorp in Northamptonshire, surrounded by those she loved."

Some reports claim that Earl Spencer arranged for 36 oak trees to be planted in a circle around Diana's grave, symbolizing each year of her life. This touched people's hearts and quickly became a popular rumor, but is it true?

The Truth behind the Story

There is no concrete evidence that 36 trees were planted at Diana's grave. In fact, the Althorp estate has a strict policy against planting trees near the burial site. Instead, the estate has created a commemorative arboretum with more than 300 specimens of trees and shrubs, each dedicated to a significant person or event in Diana's life.

Earl Spencer himself has denied the tree-planting rumor, stating that it would have been impractical and unsuitable for the burial site. He also said that the family prefers to keep Diana's grave simple and unadorned, in line with her humble and down-to-earth nature.

A Fitting Tribute

Although the story of the 36 trees at Diana's grave may be a myth, it is clear that her memory and legacy continue to inspire people around the world. The Althorp estate's arboretum is a beautiful and fitting tribute to her life and achievements, and it serves as a peaceful place for visitors to reflect and pay their respects.

Whether or not the rumor is true, the image of 36 oak trees surrounding Diana's final resting place remains a touching symbol of her life and legacy. It reminds us of the impact she made on the world, and how much she was loved and cherished by those who knew her best.