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Victoria Eugenia BattenbergPrincess of the Battenberg family, Queen Consort of Spain after marriage
Date of Birth: 24.10.1887
Country:  Dive |
Content:
- Princess Victoria Eugenie of Battenberg
- Childhood and Family
- Meeting King Alfonso XIII of Spain
- Marriage and Conversion to Catholicism
- Queen Consort of Spain
- Legacy
Princess Victoria Eugenie of Battenberg
Princess Victoria Eugenie was born into the Battenberg family on October 24, 1887, at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Her father was Prince Henry of Battenberg, while her mother was Princess Beatrice of the United Kingdom, the youngest daughter of Queen Victoria.
Childhood and Family
Growing up, Victoria Eugenie spent much of her time with her grandmother, Queen Victoria, who favored Beatrice's remaining as her companion and personal secretary. After her father died in 1896, the Battenberg family moved to London. In 1905, she declined a marriage proposal from Grand Duke Boris Vladimirovich of Russia.
Meeting King Alfonso XIII of Spain
In 1905, King Alfonso XIII of Spain visited England and was immediately drawn to Victoria Eugenie. They began courting, and despite objections from his mother, Queen Maria Christina of Austria, Alfonso persisted in his pursuit.
Marriage and Conversion to Catholicism
In January 1906, Queen Maria Christina approved her son's choice, and the engagement was announced. Victoria Eugenie converted to Catholicism in February and officially on March 5, 1906. The marriage contract included agreements on public order and personal matters. The official wedding took place in Madrid on May 31, 1906.
Queen Consort of Spain
Victoria Eugenie became Queen Consort of Spain upon her marriage to King Alfonso XIII. She supported various charities and organizations, including the Red Cross and the Spanish Anti-Tuberculosis League.
Legacy
Victoria Eugenie's legacy as Queen Consort is marked by her support for education, healthcare, and social welfare. She was the great-grandmother of the current King of Spain, Felipe VI.
