Catherine of Bohemia

Catherine of Bohemia, also known as Catherine of Luxembourg, was born on 19 August 1342 as the second surviving daughter of Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and his first wife, Blanche of Valois. As the third child in her family, Catherine was destined for a life of political significance from an early age.

On 13 July 1356, she entered into a politically motivated marriage with Rudolf IV, Duke of Austria. This union was orchestrated by her father, Charles IV, as a means to foster peace with Austria. Unfortunately, the marriage lasted only nine years and was childless, ending with Rudolf's death.

Following this, on 19 March 1366, Catherine married Otto V, Duke of Bavaria, further solidifying her role in the intricate web of European politics during her time. Her marriages reflect the strategic alliances that were crucial for maintaining power and influence in the medieval period.