Having reigned over France for 72 years, King Louis XIV was one of the most iconic monarchs to ever rule this great European civilization. Governance aside, Louis XIV’s reign was highly characterized by fashion, romance, parties, and plenty of wine. Here are some intriguing facts about the lengthy rule of Louis XIV.
A Child of Promise
When Louis XIV was born, his mother, Anne of Austria was already 37 years of age. Having given birth at an advanced age, Anne had birthed several stillborns before him, almost making Louis something of a miracle. In fact, Anne began to believe that her son was ordained by God to rule over France. It thus comes as little surprise that he ascended the French throne at just four years of age.
The Quest for Love
Although arranged marriages were commonplace, especially for a king, Louis XIV had a relationship fall by the wayside before finally getting married. The French king enjoyed a youthful romance with Marie Mancini, the niece of his mother’s close ally, Cardinal Mazarin. Ultimately, Louis XIV’s mother was worried about the pair getting married, with Marie returning to Italy where she would marry another.
Strained Marriage
At 22 years of age, Louis XIV married Maria Theresa of Spain, who happened to be his first cousin. Ultimately, their relationship appeared to be lacking in the attraction department, even with the pair expressing a mutual affection for one another. The French king fathered 13 children with three other women while also maintaining contracts with other mistresses over the years.