Baroness Elisabeth-Ann de Massy, cousin of Monaco's Prince Albert, dies

Monaco's royal family has confirmed the death of Baroness Elisabeth-Ann de Massy, a cousin of Prince Albert, at age 73.

In a statement posted to Facebook, the palace announced the Baroness had died at Princess Grace Hospital in Monaco on Wednesday evening.

Elisabeth-Ann leaves behind a son and daughter from her two marriages, Jean-Léonard and Mélanie-Antoinette, as well as a grandson.

She was the daughter of Princess Antoinette, who was Prince Rainier III's older sister, and godmother to Princess Stephanie of Monaco.

Elisabeth-Ann's son Jean-Léonard counts Prince Albert as a godfather.

Elisabeth-Ann was involved in numerous local organisations, and was president of the Monagesque Tennis Federation and the Monte Carlo Country Club.

She was also passionate about animal welfare, holding leadership roles in Monaco's Society for the Protection of Animals and the Canine Society of Monaco.

The royal family's statement explained the Baroness was "very attached" to Monaco's traditions.

The Baroness was married twice, first to Baron Bernard Alexandre Taubert-Natta, then to choreographer Nicolai Vladimir Costello.

Elisabeth-Ann will be laid to rest at the Cathedral of Monaco next week.