Maria of Portugal

Poor little Maria – the sad story of a medieval princess

Medieval princesses had it tough. Rarely did they experience the joy of a loving union—Eleanor of Castile and her Edward is one of the major exceptions to that—often were they sent off to lands unknown, never to return. Yes, they were raised to do this. They were educated and buffed and polished, and many likely […]

Poor little Maria – the sad story of a medieval princess Read More »

The spurned wife – Maria of Portugal

In 1328, fifteen-year-old Maria of Portugal married Alfonso XI of Castile. He was a couple of years older than her, still a teenager, had been king since he was a baby and had, at the age of fourteen assumed control over his realm. They were first cousins on both sides, which required papal dispensations. (As

The spurned wife – Maria of Portugal Read More »