The last voyage of Maria Teresa de Silva-Fernández de Híjar Palafox (†1818)

Abstract

Chronologically, the life of María Teresa de Silva-Fernández de Híjar y Palafox unfolded between the final days of the Ancien Regime and the early decades of the 19th century. Born into one of the most influential families of the Spanish high nobility, her two marriages secured her social position. However, it was her character, intelligence, and judgment that promoted her as one of the most significant women of her time. Exiled from the court of Fernando VI, the last years of her life were spent in Paris, from where she undertook several journeys to Italy. In 1818, she passed away in Florence and was subsequently transported to Spain for burial in the Valencian city of Liria. In this chapter, we will delve into this controversial final journey.