Violante of Vilaragut facts for kids

Violante of Vilaragut was a noblewoman who lived a long time ago, from about 1320 to before 1372. She was the daughter of Berengeur de Vilaragut and Saura of Majorca. Saura was related to the King of Majorca, James II. Violante became a queen, but not in the usual way. She was known as the 'titular queen' of Majorca because she married her cousin, James III of Majorca. This meant she had the title of queen, even though her husband had lost his kingdom.

Becoming Queen of Majorca

Violante married James III of Majorca. This was James's second marriage. His first wife, Constance of Aragon, had passed away. The marriage contract for Violante and James was signed on November 10, 1347.

Family Life

When Violante married James, she became a stepmother to his two children. These children were James and Isabella. Violante also had a brother who became an important advisor to her husband. Violante and James had one daughter together, named Esclaramunda. Sadly, Esclaramunda died when she was very young.

Losing the Kingdom

Before Violante and James were married, James had already lost his kingdom in 1343. Their marriage lasted only about three years. James was killed in a battle called the Battle of Llucmajor on October 25, 1349. He was fighting against Peter IV of Aragon, who was a powerful king.

Life After James's Death

After the battle where her husband was killed, Violante and her stepchildren were captured. King Peter took them prisoner. Violante and Isabella were held in a convent in Valencia.

Gaining Freedom

Violante was set free around 1358 or 1359. She then worked to get her stepdaughter Isabella released too. Isabella was allowed to go free, but only if she gave up her claims to the kingdom of Majorca.

Moving to France

After gaining her freedom, Violante left Spain. She traveled to France. In 1352, John II of France gave her the title of Vicomtesse d'Omélas. This was a noble title.

Second Marriage

Around the same time, Violante married again. Her second husband was Otto, Duke of Brunswick-Grubenhagen. Violante also helped arrange an important marriage for her stepdaughter Isabella. Isabella married John II, Marquess of Montferrat.

Later Years

Violante passed away sometime before 1372. She did not have any children who survived her. After Violante's death, her husband Otto married Joanna I of Naples. Joanna was the widow of Violante's stepson, James.

See also

In Spanish: Violante de Vilaragut para niños