Anne of Austria

Anne of Austria (1601–1666) was a noblewoman born in Spain who became Queen of France through her marriage to King Louis XIII. Her marriage helped strengthen political alliances between Spain and France. As queen, she was known for her influence in court politics and her patronage of the arts. After her husband's death, she served as regent for their young son, Louis XIV, effectively ruling France during his early years. Her reign was marked by political challenges and the strengthening of royal authority, and she played a key role in shaping France's history in the 17th century.