Archduchess Gisela of Austria

Archduchess Gisela of Austria, born on July twelfth, eighteen fifty-six, was the second daughter and the eldest surviving child of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Named Gisella Louise Marie, she drew her first name from Queen Gisela of Hungary, the wife of Stephen I, the first Christian king of Hungary. Although she was christened with two Ls, she preferred to write her name with just one.

Gisela's upbringing was heavily influenced by her paternal grandmother, Archduchess Sophie of Austria, as she was raised alongside her elder sister, Archduchess Sophie, and her brother, Crown Prince Rudolf. Her personality mirrored that of her father, exhibiting a sober nature and a reserved demeanor, particularly towards her mother, Empress Elisabeth.

Throughout her life, Gisela maintained a close bond with her brother Rudolf, whose tragic suicide had a profound impact on her. In addition to her royal duties, she became a Princess of Bavaria through her marriage to her second cousin, Leopold, and was known for her philanthropic efforts and political involvement.