On June 12, 1875, Ferdinand I of Austria died of illness in Jerusalem. In accordance with his final wishes, Franz held a state funeral for him in Jerusalem.
Ferdinand I had never had much of a presence in Austria, nor had he made any illustrious contributions in his life. Of course, he had no notorious deeds to his name either. What he left people with was the image of a "nice old man."
The funeral was extraordinarily grand, and the guests were already on hand. Having just attended Franz's coronation, they were still touring Jerusalem's famous sights and ancient ruins.
Of course, that was merely polite talk. In reality, Jerusalem was one vast construction site. The buildings within the city were being rebuilt according to the Holy See's wishes, and there was nothing much to see.
The truth was that Franz had sent people to notify everyone. European nobles were one family; near or distant, they were all related. Since they were already here, naturally they had to show some respect.
Ferdinand I had not been a qualified monarch. In the eyes of the older generation of the House of Habsburg, he was a disgrace. Yet in the eyes of the younger generation, he had been a qualified elder. The atmosphere at the funeral was exceedingly somber.
Affected by the sorrowful atmosphere, Franz was in a terrible state by the end of the funeral. Without the slightest hesitation, he immediately ordered their return to Vienna.
No amount of persuasion could change his mind. July was almost here, and staying in Jerusalem during this season was a disaster.
Anyone who wanted to remain here to cultivate themselves and recuperate could stay on their own. Franz certainly would not keep them company.
In the end, Dowager Empress Sophie, Maximilian I's family of