Scandalous Facts About Maria Luisa, Spain’s Naughtiest Queen
Maria Luisa of Parma was many things, but she was never boring. She wasn’t just one of Spain’s many Queens, Maria Luisa remains unforgettable for being the most naughty and scandalous.
Tragedy, love affairs, betrayals, poison, and revenge followed her wherever she went. Fittingly, the life of this Real Housewife of Spain ended with a shocking deathbed confession that could rewrite history.
1. She Had A Crazy Family Tree
Maria Luisa of Parma was born on December 9, 1751, into a ridiculously royal family. Her dad, Philip, Duke of Parma, was the son of Philip V of Spain. On mom Louise Elisabeth’s side was King Louis XV. So Maria Luisa called not one, but two kings grandpa. With this pedigree, her parents naturally wanted to do some matchmaking—but it ended tragically.
2. She Lost Her Future Husband
Louise Elisabeth had her matchmaking sights set on Louis, Duke of Burgundy and heir to the French throne for her daughter’s future mate. One day, a friend pushed him off a toy horse, as kids do. Louis didn’t tell anyone about this incident to avoid getting his playmate into trouble—not knowing he was in dire danger.
His health took a nosedive after this tumble and he died from extra-pulmonary tuberculosis at only nine years old. France lost their future King and Maria Luisa lost a potential husband. Louise moved on quickly, zeroing in on another suitor.
Europe would never be the same.
3. She Moved On
At only 11 years old, Maria Luisa and 14-year-old Charles, Prince of Asturias found themselves engaged. He was the future King Charles IV of Spain. But at the time, he was just Charles to her. At least the pair were close?
Well…by close, I mean he was also her cousin. But royals loved to keep it in the family, so they happily made agreements and plans.
But remember what they say about best-laid plans? In the lead-up to the wedding, everything went wrong for Maria Luisa.
4. She Dealt With Tragedies
First, her mother Louise Elisabeth succumbed to smallpox at only 32 years old. She never got to see her youngest tie the knot—but the heartbreak didn’t stop there Not long after, her father Philip died after sending Maria Luisa on her way to marry Charles. All these tragedies didn’t exactly set the most positive tone for Charles and Maria Luisa’s marriage. Did it place a curse on it? That would explain a lot.
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