Daughter of King Victor Emmanuel II of Italy, she was the Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary by marriage to Emperor Franz Joseph I, playing a significant role in the Austro-Hungarian Empire's politics and diplomacy.
Maria Anna of Savoy, born on September 19, 1803, was the Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, known for her marriage to Emperor Ferdinand I of Austria and her role as the penultimate child and daughter of King Victor Emmanuel I of Sardinia and his wife, Maria Theresa of Austria-Este.
Maria Anna was born in Palazzo Colonna in Rome, and had a twin sister, Maria Teresa. The two princesses were baptized by Pope Pius VII, with their maternal grandparents, Archduke Ferdinand of Austria-Este and his wife Maria Beatrice Ricciarda d'Este, serving as their godparents.
On February 12, 1831, Maria Anna was married by procuration in Turin to King Ferdinand V of Hungary, the eldest son and heir apparent of Emperor Francis I of Austria. The couple was married in person in Vienna on February 27, in the Hofburg chapel by the cardinal archbishop of Olmtz.
Maria Anna and Ferdinand had no children, a rarity for royal couples of the time. Despite this, Maria Anna became empress when Ferdinand succeeded as emperor of Austria on March 2, 1835, and was crowned queen of Bohemia in Prague on September 12, 1836.
Maria Anna enjoyed some popularity as empress, and a festival was celebrated on her name day, July 26, each year. Although she never learned to speak German during her tenure as empress, preferring to speak French, she was well-liked by the people.
Maria Anna was known for her devotion to her faith and her family. She was a devoted wife and queen, and played an important role in the royal court, although she did not have any direct influence on policy.
Maria Anna was known for her strong Catholic faith, and was a devout follower of the Church. Her beliefs and values were shaped by her upbringing and her role as empress.
Maria Anna of Savoy played an important role in Austrian and Hungarian history, serving as empress and queen during a time of great change and upheaval. Her legacy is one of devotion, duty, and faith.
Born in 1820
Unified Italy's first king, who played a key role in the country's unification and modernization. He's remembered for his strong leadership and diplomatic skills.
Born in 1844
King of Italy from 1878 to 1900, known for unifying Italy and establishing the modern Italian state. He played a key role in Italian politics and foreign policy during his reign.
Born in 1851
The Italian queen consort who reigned from 1878 to 1900, known for her strong support of the Italian unification and her charitable work, especially in the field of education.
Born in 1844
King of Italy from 1878 to 1900, known for unifying Italy and establishing the modern Italian state. He played a key role in Italian politics and foreign policy during his reign.
