In France, it is possible to legally marry someone who has already died — but only under strict conditions and after approval from multiple civil authorities. This extraordinary practice, known as posthumous marriage or mariage posthume, has a remarkable history and continues to this day.
The Tragedy That Sparked a Law
Posthumous marriage for civilians began in the 1950s after the Fréjus dam disaster in southern France. When the dam collapsed, it killed 400 people, including André Capra, who was engaged to Irène Jodart. Deeply grieving, Jodart pleaded with French President Charles de Gaulle to allow her to continue with their planned wedding.
With widespread media support, her request was granted, and within months, France passed a law permitting posthumous marriage under exceptional circumstances.
How the Law Works
Posthumous marriage became legal under Article 171 of the French Civil Code. The process begins when the surviving partner applies directly to the President of France, explaining the serious reasons for the request. The application is reviewed by the Justice Minister and the local prosecutor of the survivor’s district. Approval also requires the consent of the deceased person’s family.
The applicant must provide proof of mutual intent to marry, such as published banns (official wedding announcements) or written permission from military commanders for soldiers. Reasons for approval often include the imminent birth of a child or confirmation that the wedding had already been planned. Despite this, approximately one in four applications is rejected.
The Ceremony and Its Rules
If approved, the marriage becomes official retroactively from the day before the deceased partner’s death. During the ceremony, the surviving partner often stands beside a photograph of their late fiancé. Instead of the deceased’s vows, the mayor reads the official presidential decree authorizing the marriage.
However, certain legal distinctions remain: the living spouse cannot inherit property, receive intestate rights, or be entitled to matrimonial property. They may, however, qualify for insurance benefits or a widow’s pension.
A Practice That Continues Today
Since the law’s introduction, hundreds of posthumous marriages have taken place in France. One notable example occurred in 2017, when Étienne Cardiles married his civil partner, French police captain Xavier Jugelé, more than five weeks after Jugelé was killed in a terrorist attack on the Champs-Élysées.
France remains one of the few countries in the world where posthumous marriage is legal, balancing strict legal requirements with the recognition of profound personal commitments.
In France, you can legally marry a partner who has died, but only with approvals from several officials.
The practice began in the 1950s after a deadly dam disaster and remains in effect today.
Here is how it started, why people seek it, and one famous example…🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/8L10O3jQYg
— Fascinating True Stories (@FascinatingTrue) September 6, 2025