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Anna BrandenburgThe first wife of King Christian IV of Denmark and Norway.
Date of Birth: 26.07.1575
Country:  Denmark |
Content:
- Early Life and Family
- Courtship and Marriage to Christian IV
- Issue and Character
- Royal Intrigues
- Death and Legacy
Early Life and Family
Anna Catherine, the first wife of King Christian IV of Denmark and Norway, was born into nobility as the eldest daughter of Joachim Frederick, Elector of Brandenburg, and his first wife, Catherine of Brandenburg-Küstrin. Her maternal grandfather was Hans of Küstrin, the son of Joachim I of Brandenburg.
Courtship and Marriage to Christian IV
Christian IV first encountered Anna Catherine on his journey through Germany in 1595. Impressed by her demeanor, he decided to marry her. In 1596, Anna Catherine attended Christian's coronation with her parents, and on November 27, 1597, they were married at Haderslevhus Castle. The following year, on June 11, Anna Catherine was crowned Queen.
Issue and Character
Six children were born to Anna Catherine and Christian IV, but three died in childhood. Little is known about Anna Catherine's personal life, but she was highly regarded for her modesty and piety. She did not appear to have significant influence on the kingdom's politics, although she frequently accompanied Christian on his travels.
Royal Intrigues
The extent of happiness in Anna Catherine's marriage is unclear, but in her later years, Christian IV took several mistresses, including the Queen's lady-in-waiting, Kirsten Madsdatter.
Death and Legacy
Queen Anna Catherine passed away in Copenhagen and was laid to rest in Roskilde Cathedral. Her remains lie alongside those of her royal spouse, Christian IV.
