Supreme Court Justice Alito Visits German Princess at Enigmatic Ancestral Castle

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito’s stay at a German princess’s historic castle raises eyebrows and sparks debate on judicial ethics.

At a Glance

Justice Samuel Alito and his wife were hosted by Princess Gloria von Thurn und Taxis at her 500-room castle in Germany
The princess, known for her conservative views, referred to Alito as “a hero” and her “friend”
Alito reported receiving $900 concert tickets from the princess on his annual financial disclosure form
The visit has reignited discussions about Supreme Court justices accepting gifts and their ethical obligations

A Royal Welcome for Justice Alito

In a surprising blend of American jurisprudence and European nobility, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito and his wife were recently honored guests at the historic St. Emmeram Palace in southeastern Germany. The 500-room castle, home to Princess Gloria von Thurn und Taxis, played host to the Alitos during a July 2023 music festival, offering a rare glimpse into the private worlds where legal authority and noble heritage intersect.

Princess Gloria, a figure known for her transformation from 1980s punk style icon to conservative Catholic, did not mince words in her praise for Justice Alito. She referred to him as “a hero” and described the Alitos as “private friends,” highlighting the personal nature of their relationship.

Judicial Ethics Under Scrutiny

The revelation of Justice Alito’s stay at the princess’s castle has reignited discussions about Supreme Court justices accepting gifts and their ethical obligations. Alito reported receiving $900 concert tickets from Princess Gloria on his annual financial disclosure form, a detail that has drawn attention in light of recent controversies surrounding other justices.

“He is pro-life in a time where the majority follows the culture of death,” Princess Gloria stated, praising Justice Alito’s conservative stance.

This visit comes at a time when the Supreme Court is facing increased scrutiny over ethical concerns. Earlier this year, Justice Clarence Thomas faced criticism for accepting undisclosed gifts and luxury trips from billionaire GOP donor Harlan Crow. These revelations led to calls for stricter ethics rules for the nation’s highest court.

Justice Samuel Alito reported Friday that he accepted $900 worth of concert tickets from a German princess, but disclosed no trips paid for by other people, according to a new financial disclosure form. https://t.co/gWIhPiQKKi

— NBC Politics (@NBCPolitics) September 7, 2024

A Conservative Connection

Princess Gloria’s hosting of Justice Alito is notable not only for its regal setting but also for the ideological alignment it represents. The princess, once known for her “rambunctious punk aesthetic,” has become a prominent conservative figure with connections to far-right personalities, including former Trump strategist Steve Bannon.

Supreme Court Justice Alito reports German princess gave him $900 concert tickets https://t.co/zZsfl1Foo1

— The Associated Press (@AP) September 6, 2024

The princess’s transformation from socialite to conservative Catholic mirrors broader cultural shifts within certain European circles. Her praise of Justice Alito’s pro-life stance and her criticism of what she describes as a “nihilistic culture” underscore the shared values that likely form the basis of their friendship.

Implications for Judicial Independence

While there is no suggestion of impropriety in Justice Alito’s visit, the event has sparked renewed debate about the relationships between Supreme Court justices and influential figures with strong ideological leanings. Critics argue that such close associations could potentially influence judicial decision-making or create the appearance of bias.

Supporters of Justice Alito, however, may view this visit as a simple act of friendship and cultural exchange, emphasizing that justices are entitled to personal relationships and experiences outside their official duties.

Justice Alito reported a $900 concert ticket from a German princess known for her ties to conservative activists.

The Supreme Court needs to be governed by a binding code of ethics. https://t.co/jhh4buPbOo

— Brennan Center (@BrennanCenter) September 9, 2024

Looking Forward

As the Supreme Court continues to navigate its role in an increasingly polarized political landscape, incidents like Justice Alito’s castle stay are likely to receive ongoing scrutiny. The court’s recent adoption of an ethics code, albeit without an enforcement mechanism, reflects an acknowledgment of these concerns.

For now, the image of an American Supreme Court Justice being feted in a German castle serves as a vivid reminder of the complex interplay between judicial authority, personal relationships, and the global nature of contemporary conservatism.