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Our Women's History Month celebration continues in France this weekend! Author Jules Larimore is here to shine a spotlight on Adélaïde de Maurienne. Like many women throughout history, Adélaïde de Maurienne lived a fascinating life that has been largely forgotten, so I'm thrilled that Jules is here to share this exceptional woman with us.
Welcome, Jules!
~ Samantha
Adélaïde de Maurienne: Guest Post by Jules Larimore
It is likely you've never heard of Adélaïde de Maurienne, ironically, the most politically active queen in the history of France. Or if you have, the stories might be based on tall tales spun from patriarchal bias propaganda, creating a negative narrative that’s been perpetuated by other writers. It is difficult to find traces of her in the chronicles of the later Middle Ages or the Early Modern periods as you might expect but, while researching for my forthcoming biographical novel on Adélaïde for UK-based Sapere Books, I’ve unearthed her fascinating story through more recent scholarly writings and a close examination of primary sources.
Her life is a remarkable tale of adaptability and influence. From her Savoard (Savouèard) roots to her pivotal role as Queen of Francia, she navigated the intricacies of medieval politics with skill and determination. Her story reminds us that queenship in the High Middle Ages was far more than a ceremonial title; it was a position that required intelligence, strategy, and an unyielding commitment to the survival and prosperity of one's dynasty.
Through her marriage to Louis VI and her efforts as a queen and mother, Adélaïde helped shape the course of French history. Her contributions to the Capetian dynasty's stability and expansion ensured her place among the great queens of medieval Europe, a legacy that has inspired me to write my next novel based on this formidable woman — who just so happens to be my 25th great-grandmother, (if I’ve calculated correctly).
A Princess of Savouè: Early Life and Education
Born around 1092 in the Alpine stronghold of Savouè (Savouè), Adélaïde de Maurienne, was the daughter of Comte Humberto II of Savouè and Gisèle of Bourgogne (Burgundy). She was connected to some of the most powerful noble families in Europe and was the great-granddaughter of the legendary Adélaïde di Susa. She was born into a region that straddled the burgeoning political entities of Francia, Italy, and the Holy Roman Empire. The county of Savouè, while not a kingdom, was strategically located and served as a bridge between the powerful regions.
Adélaïde's upbringing in the politically charged environment of Savouè — at the time ruled by her mother as regent — likely instilled a keen understanding of diplomacy and governance. As a daughter of the Savouèard court, Adélaïde received an education that balanced piety with practical skills, preparing her for a role in the dynastic politics of the time. Her connections to Bourgogne and the Holy Roman Empire made her an attractive match for rulers seeking alliances.
Marriage to Louis VI: A Partnership of Power
Adélaïde was married to King Louis VI of Francia in 1115, a union that would shape her destiny and solidify her place in history. Louis was a warrior king dedicated to strengthening royal authority against rebellious barons and securing the stability of the realm, which often left him far from his Curia Regis (royal council). As queen, Adélaïde played a critical role in supporting his efforts to rebuild a diminished Francia demesne, both as a counselor to her husband and as a mediator at court, both in his stead and as a second, united voice.
She had the good fortune of having an uncle — Gui de Bourgogne — who reigned as Pope Calixtus II for five years, which often helped in negotiating favorable outcomes for Francia. Additionally, her piety and intelligence earned her respect among the clergy, the nobility, and the people alike.
Adélaïde’s name appears in forty-five royal charters, more than any other Capetian queen. She shared in authorizing royal benefactions, ecclesiastical appointments, and royal prerogatives such as the use of the King’s mills or permission to hold fairs. She was responsible for the downfall of the powerful, corrupt Garlande brothers, members of the Curia Regis for years, and for creating new religious homes for women who choose a life outside of married life.
Adélaïde’s own marriage was loving and fruitful; in the charters of Louis VI, we find evidence of the deep affection he felt for his wife. He is the only one of the Capetians to date his official acts from the year of the queen's coronation, the only one who so frequently mentions her participation or assent in the measures taken for the good government of the kingdom.
She bore at least ten children, seven of which lived to full adulthood, securing the Capetian dynasty's continuity. Despite her many pregnancies, Adélaïde remained an active participant in court life, demonstrating her resilience and capacity for multitasking in an era that demanded much of queens.
Widowhood: A Queen Mother’s Challenge
Louis VI's death in 1137 marked a turning point in Adélaïde's life. Their eldest son, Louis VII, ascended the throne, and Adélaïde transitioned from queen consort to queen mother. This new role came with its own challenges, as she navigated court politics to protect her son's interests and ensure a smooth transition of power.
The period was fraught with tension. Louis VII's early reign was marked by his controversial marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine, a union that would later end in divorce and political turmoil. While Adélaïde's direct influence waned as her son matured, her presence at court remained significant. She offered counsel and stability during a time of upheaval, drawing on her decades of experience to guide the young king.
A Second Marriage: Adélaïde and Mathieu de Montmorency
Following the death of Louis VI, Adélaïde entered into a second marriage with Mathieu I de Montmorency, a prominent French noble who in 1138 became the Grand Constable of Francia. This union, while politically advantageous, also marked a new chapter in Adélaïde's life, reflecting her adaptability and continued involvement in the political sphere. Mathieu was a trusted ally of the Capetian dynasty, and as Adélaïde transitioned from queen consort to queen dowager, her marriage to Mathieu provided her with a partner who shared her dedication to preserving the stability of the French crown. Together, they maintained a network of alliances that supported her son Louis VII’s reign.
Although Adélaïde eventually retired to a more pious and secluded life — spending her final years at the Abbey of Montmartre, a religious institution for women that she had established — her marriage to Mathieu demonstrated her enduring commitment to safeguarding the interests of her family and the kingdom.
Legacy
Adélaïde died around 1154, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, diplomacy, and maternal dedication. She will be remembered as an avid founder and supporter of women’s religious institutions and as perhaps the most significant force in revitalizing the Capetian dynasty during the 12th century.
The Capetian Lilies series
Follow my website at juleslarimore.com or check Sapere Books for updates on the forthcoming series about Queen Adélaïde de Maurienne, her daughter, Princess Constance de France, and her daughter Azalais (Adélaïde) de Toulouse. Publishing dates are to be determined, likely beginning in mid to late 2026.
Connect with Jules
Jules Larimore is the author of emotive, literary-leaning historical fiction with a dose of magic, myth, and romance to bring to life hopeful human stories and inspire positive change. She is a member of France’s Splendid Centuries authors’ collaborative, a board member of the Historical Novel Society of Southern California, and lives primarily in Ojai with time spent around the U.S. and Europe gathering a rich repository of historical research in a continued search for authenticity.
Her two published novels, The Muse of Freedom and Find Me in the Stars set in 17th century Languedoc, France are inspired by the true story of an apothecary from a noble Huguenot family, in a tale of enduring love, faith, and the search for freedom and light in the darkest of times.
I like it. And wow, you've done your genealogy research on this one. Yes, her story would make a fascinating book.