“The Prince, the Courtesan and the Missing Diamonds” – an illustrated talk by Calum MacLeod – 25/9/26 – Trinity Hall, Cambridge
Posted: September 24th, 2026 | No Comments »“The Prince, the Courtesan and the Missing Diamonds” – an illustrated talk by Calum MacLeod
Friday, 25 September, 6:30pm; Trinity Hall, Cambridge
Come for a love story, a royal scandal and the birth of the selfie. Leave with a burning desire to explore Uzbekistan, where the Tsar’s banished nephew, Grand Duke Nicholas Constantinovich, left an enduring mark on the Hunger Steppe and Tashkent, his home in exile from 1881-1918. Using historical and contemporary images, this talk will bring to life Russia’s brutal conquest of Central Asia and bring the story up to date, as Uzbekistan and Russia share record trade, but the currents of mistrust run deep. The Romanov palace in Tashkent is set to reopen, featuring the art collection the prince bequeathed the city, including a life-size nude statue of the forbidden love of his life, Fanny Lear, on which he lay fresh flowers every day.
Calum MacLeod, an Oxford graduate, journalist and experienced traveller in the region, is co-author of Uzbekistan: The Golden Road to Samarkand, a richly illustrated guide to the country’s history, culture and extraordinary places. The latest edition was published this summer. The talk will be followed by a wine reception.
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