Nostradamus – the 16th-century French astrologer and seer – made numerous predictions, some of which people believe relate directly to the British royal family. But how accurate were they?

Predictions about the royals

Born in 1503, Nostradamus became known for his mysterious quatrains in Les Prophéties (1555), which many interpret as foretelling future events. Over the centuries, he’s credited with foreseeing the Fire of London, both World Wars, the moon landing, and even 9/11.

Among the predictions linked to the royals is one that some claim foretold Queen Elizabeth II’s passing: “Queen Elizabeth II will die, circa 22, at the age of around 96.” The Queen died on September 8, 2022, aged 96—though some experts dispute that this was truly from Nostradamus.

Another passage is interpreted by some as predicting Princess Diana’s death: “The last but one of the prophet’s name will take Diana for his day of rest.” This has been linked to Dodi Fayed, son of Mohammed Al Fayed, who died alongside Diana in 1997.

Perhaps most talked about is a quatrain that, according to author Mario Reading, hints Charles could be forced to abdicate: