Maria Leonor of Portugal

Maria Leonor (born 25th July 1745) is the Queen of Fidenza and Milan by her marriage to Emmanuele III, reigning King of Fidenza and Milan. She was born a Princess of Portugal as the daughter of King Joseph I and his wife, Mariana Victoria of Spain. Her marriage was hastily arranged by her father and the Queen-Regent Maria Elisabetta and was considered a prestigious match for both parties.

Leonor was a pious and virtuous woman and she attempted to maintain to religion and the teachings of the church even in the less traditional court of her husband. She was a strong proponent of tradition and godliness, in contrast to her husband's striving for change, fashion, new architecture and generally disregarding the church. As Queen, she was respected and admired for her piety by the people, though like many Queens before her she was considered a foreigner.

Early Life
Maria Leonor was born to King Joseph I of Portugal and his wife, Mariana Victoria of Spain in Lisbon. She was their youngest child, having three elder sisters: Maria, Mariana Francisca and Doroteia. Growing up in the traditional and religious Portuguese court, Leonor was given the general education for a Princess. She was educated in religious matters and the importance of family, given the same tutors as her elder sister Doroteia. Her father took a liking to her and spent much time seeking out a prestigious and high match for her.

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