As far as legendary royal marriages go, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s romance was one for the ages.
Their lasting relationship was based on their mutual love and respect, but also a shared sense of humour – after all, Prince Philip was revered for his quick wit and deadpan one-liners.
The prince’s unwavering devotion to his wife was the backbone to their incredible partnership that spanned seven decades and produced four kids, eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and global adoration.
And on the eve of what would have been Prince Philip’s 101st birthday, the world is once again reminded of the unique and remarkable relationship he shared with The Queen.
We take a look back at a few of the most sentimental and tear-jerking quotes from Her Majesty about the love of her life.
The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh re-visit Broadlands to mark their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on November 20, 2007.
(Credit: (Image: Getty))On Prince Philip’s love of Scotland:
In October 2021, six months after Prince Philip’s death, The Queen addressed Scottish Parliament as part of the opening ceremony for its sixth session.
“I have spoken before of my deep and abiding affection for this wonderful country, and of the many happy memories Prince Philip and I always held of our time here,” her majesty said.
“It is often said that it is the people that make a place, and there are few places where this is truer than in Scotland, as we have seen in recent times.”
On Prince Philip’s support during her reign:
On November, 1997 The Queen spoke lovingly about Prince Philip as they celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary.
“He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know,” she said of their 50 years of marriage.
At the 2015 Service of Commemoration for troops stationed in Afghanistan, Philip kept a watchful and loving eye on his wife.
(Credit: (Image: Getty))On their marriage:
During the couple’s Silver Wedding Anniversary in 1972, The Queen looked back on their then 25 years of marriage.
“If I am asked what I think about family life after 25 years of marriage, I can answer with equal simplicity and conviction, I am for it,” she said.
“Reflecting on these events makes me grateful for the blessings of home and family, and in particular for 70 years of marriage,” The Queen said some 45 years later in her 2017 Christmas message.
“I don’t know that anyone had invented the term ‘platinum’ for a 70th wedding anniversary when I was born. You weren’t expected to be around that long.”
On his sense of humour:
During her 2017 Christmas message, The Queen gushed over Prince Philip’s trademark quick wit.
“Even Prince Philip has decided it’s time to slow down a little—having, as he economically put it, ‘done his bit’. But I know his support and unique sense of humour will remain as strong as ever,” her majesty said.
On Philip stepping down from royal duties:
In August 2017, at the age of 96, Prince Philip stepped down from royal duties. The Queen spoke about his retirement at the time.
“Even Prince Philip has decided it’s time to slow down a little — having, as he economically put it, ‘done his bit’. But I know his support and unique sense of humor will remain as strong as ever,” she said.
The couple attend a State banquet in 1970.
(Credit: (Image: Getty))On Prince Philip’s dedication to his country:
The Queen took the opportunity to thank Prince Philip for his contribution to the United Kingdom during their 50th wedding anniversary.
“I take this opportunity to mention the strength I draw from my own family. The Duke of Edinburgh has made an invaluable contribution to my life over these past fifty years, as he has to so many charities and organisations with which he has been involved,” she said.
On their young love:
In a letter written during their honeymoon in November 1947, the Queen opened up to her parents about her beloved new husband.
“We behave as though we had belonged to each other for years. Philip is an angel—he is so kind and thoughtful,” the monarch penned.
The pair tied the knot in breathtaking ceremony on November 20, 1947.
(Credit: (Image: Getty))On Prince Philip’s humility:
During her Diamond Jubilee address to Parliament in March 2012, The Queen touched on her husband’s endearing modesty.
“During these years as your Queen, the support of my family has, across the generations, been beyond measure. Prince Philip is, I believe, well-known for declining compliments of any kind. But throughout he has been a constant strength and guide,” she said.
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