Some 3000 guests gathered in the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Georgia's capital Tbilisi on a crisp winter day this weekend to witness a union laden with historical significance for the country which sits on the dividing line between Europe and Asia.
In the first royal nuptials celebrated on Georgian soil for two centuries, Prince David, the Spanish-born head of the deposed Bragationi dynasty, took as his bride teacher Anna Gruzinski.
The striking brunette wore an exquisite traditional satin gown in ivory, featuring golden embroidery on the high neck and bodice. Completing the regal look was a floor-length tulle veil and pearl drop earrings.
Her groom wore national costume, consisting of a white long tunic and leather boots, with a dagger hanging at his waist.
The couple, both 32, were greeted at the doors of the cathedral by mounted horsemen and crowds of well-wishers.
Their marriage unites two branches of the clan as Anna - who is the mother of two young girls from her first marriage, Irina, six, and two-year-old Miriam – is also a princess of the junior line of the royal family.