People in France are legally allowed to marry their dead fiance, according to a law passed in the 1950s.
A person wishing to enter a posthumous marriage requires permission from the country’s President.
The wedding ceremony takes place with the person standing next to the deceased fiancé’s photograph.
This practice dates back roughly to the First World War, when the fiancées and girlfriends of slain soldiers would tie the knot with their fallen lovers via proxy.
In 1950, the French government legally clarified the ritual. Under this legislation, the living spouse must get the approval of the nation’s President and Justice Minister.
A simple ceremony is then held in which the bride or groom stands beside a photo of their significant other.
The phrase “till death do us part” is eliminated from the vows and “I do” is replaced with saying “I did.”
To qualify, one must provide compelling evidence that the deceased intended to marry them while alive.
For example, Magali Jaskiewicz’ request was granted in 2009 after she pointed out that her fiancé had previously arranged a tentative wedding date at their local town hall just two days before he was killed in a car accident (furthermore, she’d already purchased her gown).
