Hiii can you share some facts about Mariana of Austria and her husband's relationship? I found very little about it and want to know more! <333
Thank you for the Question, Her marriage to King Philip IV of Spain was always described as a terrible marriage because King Philip "cheated" on her, their different personalities, and massive age gap. In reality, They had an affectionate relationship and King Philip was loyal throughout their marriage.
In the short term, however, Mariana had a specific responsibility: to give birth to an heir. Philip IV made no secret of his desire to “fill the house with children” as soon as possible. In a letter to his friend, the Countess of Paredes, he deemed his niece “well-developed for her age, but still very young [bien niña].” Despite the thirty-year difference in age, Mariana and Philip IV had what appears to have been an affectionate relationship. Philip IV was impressed with Mariana: “The petition about my happiness has already been granted as I find my niece with a better disposition than I have ever imagined possible,” he wrote to Paredes shortly after Mariana’s arrival. Although Philip IV had had his share of extramarital affairs in his youth, with Mariana, he was by his own admission “a changed man” and “free of temptations,” and he remained a faithful husband—most if not all of the time—calling himself her galán, or admirer. He reportedly indulged her in anything she wanted. Mariana, in turn, according to the Venetian ambassador, worked to establish a good relationship with Philip IV, relying on “her natural kindness.” The king, perhaps because of the bride’s youth, or so they could get to know each other, waited to consummate the marriage until the arrival festivities were over.
Queen, Mother, and Stateswoman Mariana of Austria and the government of Spain by Silvia Z. Mitchell. Page 49
King Philip IV was initially skeptical during Queen Mariana's first pregnancy, choosing not to celebrate until he was certain she was truly with a child. Once her pregnancy was confirmed, he felt hopeful and happy. Throughout the birthing process, King Philip IV remained by her side, holding her hand and encouraging her, caring for her until she recovered.
When Queen Mariana gave birth to Margaret Theresa of Spain, King Philip IV was pleased, even though she was not the desired male heir. Margarita's birth demonstrated Mariana's capability as a mother.
Expected in June, the birth took place on July 12, 1651. It was a dangerous ordeal for the sixteen-year-old queen; Philip IV, who was present, feared for Mariana’s life. It took weeks for Mariana, who was left “too thin,” to recuperate fully. The king was enthralled by the new addition to his family, calling her “gorgeous and so splendid that she looks more like a sister of her mother than a daughter.” Maria Theresa was equally taken with the baby, whom she called “my daughter.” “We will baptize her today,” Philip IV wrote to his friend, and “call her Margarita Maria.”
Queen, Mother, and Stateswoman Mariana of Austria and the government of Spain by Silvia Z. Mitchell. Page 50
In his later years, Philip IV trusted her with matters of state. Before his death, he spoke with her for over an hour before she returned to her chambers. After his passing, it was reported that she was sad but maintained her composure.
