Maria Theresa

Sunday, was Maria Theresa Day at Špilberk Castle. There were people in costumes, some arts & crafts, and games for the kids.

For everyone back home, here’s a little bit about Maria Theresa (1717 - 1780). She was a key figure in 18th-century European politics.

She was the eldest daughter of Holy Roman emperor Charles VI. Due to the lack of a male heir, her father altered the Hapsburg family law so that she could inherit the lands.

She became the archduchess of Austria and queen of Hungary and Bohemia (1740–80), as well as, empress of the Holy Roman Empire. She unified the Hapsburg Empire and is considered one of its most capable rulers.

While on the throne she had 16 children, including Leopold II and Marie-Antoinette.