Anne of Austria

After Rubens - Anne of Austria, Queen of France - Versailles MV 3410

Anne of Austria
Reign	1615–1643
Spouse	Louis XIII of France
Issue	Louis XIV of France, Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, Anne of France
House	House of Habsburg
Father	Philip III of Spain
Mother	Margaret of Austria

Anne of Austria (22 September 1601 – 20 January 1666) was the queen consort of France from 1615 to 1643 as the wife of King Louis XIII of France. She was born in Valladolid, Spain, and was the daughter of King Philip III of Spain and Margaret of Austria.

Anne of Austria played a significant role in the political affairs of France during her husband's reign, particularly during the regency of her son, Louis XIV of France, after Louis XIII's death in 1643. She was known for her influence at court and her involvement in various diplomatic initiatives.

During her marriage to Louis XIII, Anne of Austria gave birth to two sons, Louis XIV and Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, as well as a daughter, Anne of France. Louis XIV would go on to become one of the most powerful monarchs in French history.

Anne of Austria's tenure as queen consort was marked by her efforts to maintain Spanish influence in the French court and to secure advantageous alliances for her family. She was also known for her patronage of the arts and her support of various cultural initiatives.

After the death of Louis XIII, Anne of Austria served as regent for her young son, Louis XIV, until he came of age. Her regency was a period of significant political and social change in France, and she navigated the challenges of ruling a kingdom in transition with skill and determination.

Anne of Austria died in 1666 at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy of political savvy and cultural patronage that would be remembered for generations to come.