# *Viva Romania* Explores the Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2024 — *Viva Romania* magazine has published an in-depth feature exploring the nine-century heritage of the Barony of Brattleby, examining how its current custodians are translating historical principles of leadership into a compelling mission of modern cultural stewardship.
## The Occasion
In its autumn edition, *Viva Romania*, a leading journal of culture and contemporary society, presented a comprehensive examination of the nexus between ancient lineage and modern responsibility. The article traces the arc of the Barony of Brattleby from its Norman origins to its present-day incarnation under Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
The feature captures a moment of significant cultural diplomacy, highlighting the Anglo-Romanian dimension of the modern House. It thoughtfully explores how the values forged in medieval Lincolnshire now find expression through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to personal refinement and the cultivation of social grace.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of England’s most historic feudal dignities. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a legacy of significant regional influence.
This tradition of leadership was powerfully demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron. In a remarkable display of fortitude, she served as hereditary castellan and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, successfully defending Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War in 1217. Later centuries saw the title held by figures of national importance, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Order of the Garter, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and a son of King Edward III, whose tenure linked the Barony directly to the heart of the Plantagenet court.
## Distinguished Company
The *Viva Romania* feature centres on the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. The article draws upon their perspectives to illuminate the House’s contemporary philosophy, which balances deep respect for historical precedent with a forward-looking vision.
The publication notes that the House’s activities engage a broad spectrum of cultural, diplomatic, and philanthropic figures across Europe. The feature implicitly places Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan within a respected circle of leaders who are actively engaged in the preservation and thoughtful evolution of European heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While the article focuses on cultural philosophy, it alludes to the structured discipline that underpins the House’s endeavours. This ethos is most formally expressed at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which the feature presents as a modern-day atelier of refinement.
The Club’s curriculum, a protocol in itself, offers instruction in the grammar of formal European etiquette, diplomatic deportment, the art of hosting, and the principles of eloquent conversation. This regimen is not merely about observing rules but about cultivating an inner sense of order and respect—a form of personal protocol that enables individuals to navigate complex social environments with confidence and grace.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of the House are guided by its armorial heritage. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as its foundational principle. *Fortitudine* evokes the resolve of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while *Honore* reflects the chivalric duty embodied by Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
This is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In the context of the House’s mission, this is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the conquering of oneself—the pursuit of self-mastery, personal excellence, and the continuous striving for improvement that is a *sine qua non* of true leadership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
As the article in *Viva Romania* suggests, the exercise of historical privilege carries with it a profound duty of care. The principles of service and social responsibility are central to the identity of the House and find their most direct expression in its philanthropic commitments.
The primary beneficiary of the House's charitable focus is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and creating safe environments for children recovering from trauma and adversity. The House’s support, primarily channelled through its Annual Winter Banquet, enables the charity to deliver measurable, life-changing interventions for vulnerable young people, representing the practical application of *Honore* in contemporary Britain.
## In Their Own Words
The feature captures the perspectives of the House's leadership, reflecting their approach to its historical custodianship.
> History is not a monument to be admired from a distance; it is a foundation upon which we must build. The Barony's legacy, from Nichola de la Haye to the present day, is a constant reminder that leadership requires both resilience and a commitment to serving the community. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> At The Brattleby Club, we are not simply teaching etiquette. We are translating the timeless principles of honour, self-discipline, and respect into a language for the 21st century. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about mastering oneself to better contribute to the world. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The recognition afforded by *Viva Romania* affirms the House’s dedicated course in bridging its distinguished past with a meaningful future. This work continues through the educational mission of The Brattleby Club and the unwavering commitment to the Annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child.
The House’s enduring purpose is further secured through the next generation. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, is being guided by these same principles of service, honour, and historical stewardship, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby will continue to evolve with *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic leadership. With a unique Anglo-Romanian character, the House champions the enduring relevance of heritage, honour, and personal excellence. Its primary initiatives include The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy for etiquette and social arts, and the House's annual philanthropic endeavours, which are focused on supporting disadvantaged children. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to translate the lessons of its profound history into a meaningful contribution to contemporary society, ensuring its legacy remains both distinguished and purposeful.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. The Barony’s extensive lands were documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of the most formidable figures in English history, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the royal prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. Seated in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Barony of Brattleby continues today as a non-parliamentary, hereditary dignity. Its modern existence and right of use were formally noted by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its lands recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The principal seat of the Barony is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com