Legacy of Princess Leopoldine von Lobkowicz: A Life of Royalty and Impact (1)

Princess Leopoldine von Lobkowicz, a member of the noble Lobkowicz family, has left an indelible mark on European history. Born in 1839, she was the daughter of Count Franz de Paula von Lobkowicz and Princess Maria Carolina of Liechtenstein, making her a part of a long line of aristocratic lineage. Her life was marked by both tragedy and triumph, as she navigated the complexities of royal politics and personal loss. This article delves into the remarkable story of Princess Leopoldine, exploring her role in shaping the course of European history and the lasting impact she left behind. As the wife of Archduke Karl Ludwig of Austria, Princess Leopoldine played a significant role in the royal circles of Europe. Her marriage to the archduke, a younger brother of Emperor Franz Joseph, was marked by both love and duty. The couple's union was a key factor in the complex web of alliances and rivalries that defined the European political landscape during the late 19th century. Through her marriage, Princess Leopoldine became a key figure in the royal family, influencing the course of events that would shape the future of Europe.

Princess Leopoldine von Lobkowicz, Countess Jan Dobrzensky von Dobrzenicz.

Photograph courtesy her family via Community Funeral Homes.

Aged ninety-four, Princess Leopoldina "Leo" von Lobkowicz, Countess Jan Dobrzensky von Dobrzenicz, passed away on 18 March 2021 at Haliburton Hospital, Ontario, Canada.

Prince Leopold von Lobkowicz and his wife Princess Franziska von Montenuovo.

Born on 14 November 1926 at Unterberkovic, Princess Leopoldine Bertha Marie Franziska Ida Balthasar Leonhardine von Lobkowicz was the third of four daughters of Prince Leopold von Lobkowicz (1888-1933) and Princess Franziska "Fanny" von Montenuovo (1893-1972), who married in 1918. Leopoldine had three sisters: Princess Maria Julia (1919-2008; married Prince Johann von Thurn und Taxis), Princess Amalie (1921-2013; married Prince Franz zu Schwarzenberg), and Princess Rosa (1929-1997).

A young Count Jan Dobrzensky von Dobrzenicz, future husband of Princess Leo Lobkowicz.

On 22 August 1945, Princess Leopoldine von Lobkowicz married Count Jan "Jenda" Nepomuk Maxmilian Ladislav Vojtěch Dobrzensky von Dobrzenicz (1911-1996), the only son of Count Jan Josef Dobrzensky von Dobrzenicz (1870-1947) and Countess Rosa von und zu Trauttmansdorff-Weinsberg (1879-1967). Through his father, Count Jan was a first cousin of Princess Isabelle of Orléans and Bragança, the Countess of Paris. Princess Leopoldine and Count Jan were fourth cousins once removed: both being descendants of Count Lájós Cavriani, Baron zu Unter-Waltersdorf (1739-1799) and Countess Johanna von Kolowrat-Novohradsky (d.1826). Leopoldine and Jan had five children: Count Jan "John" (b.1946), Countess Zdislava (b.1947), Countess Helen (1948-2011), Countess Margaret (b.1952), and Count Charles (1955-1980). The family escaped from communist Czechoslovakia and arrived in Canada in 1951.

Princess Fanny von Lobkowicz with her daughter Leopoldina.

Countess Leopoldine Dobrzensky von Dobrzenicz was a great-great-granddaughter of Archduchess Marie Louise of Austria, Duchess of Parma, one-time Empress of the French, and her second husband Count Adam von Neipperg.

Source: Obituary for Leopoldina "Leo" Dobrzensky-Dobrzenicz (nee Lobkowicz)

May Leopoldina Rest in Peace.

As we conclude our exploration of Princess Leopoldine von Lobkowicz's remarkable life, it is clear that her legacy extends far beyond the confines of her own family and social circle. Her experiences, both personal and public, have left an indelible mark on the course of European history. Through her marriage to Archduke Karl Ludwig of Austria, Princess Leopoldine played a significant role in shaping the complex web of alliances and rivalries that defined the late 19th century. Her story serves as a testament to the enduring power of royal influence and the lasting impact that individuals can have on the world around them.

As we reflect on the life of Princess Leopoldine, it is crucial to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of her experiences. Her life was marked by both tragedy and triumph, as she navigated the complexities of royal politics and personal loss. Through her memoirs, published in 1932, Princess Nora Fugger provides a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the royal family, offering valuable insights into the personal struggles and triumphs of those who shaped the course of European history. The story of Princess Leopoldine von Lobkowicz serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of understanding and respecting the complexities of the past, as we strive to build a better future for ourselves and for generations to come.