Marriage of Amadeus VI of Savoy and Bonne of Bourbon
On February 20, 1339, Amadeus VI of Savoy, known as ‘The Green Count,’ married Bonne of Bourbon in a union that would significantly impact the political landscape of the region. Amadeus VI, born in 1334, became Count of Savoy at a young age following the death of his father, Aimone, Count of Savoy. He was a ruler known for both his chivalric reputation and his diplomatic acumen, earning him the nickname ‘The Green Count’ due to his heraldic colors and association with martial valor.
Bonne of Bourbon was a member of the French Bourbon line, a prominent family with considerable influence. Her marriage to Amadeus VI was not merely a personal union but a strategic alliance that bolstered the political connections between Savoy and one of the most influential noble families in France. This alliance facilitated increased cooperation and influence across the region, reinforcing Savoy’s status among European powers.
The marriage produced several children, most notably Amadeus VII, whose reign continued the political and territorial consolidation initiated by his father. The alliance through marriage thus laid the groundwork for subsequent successes in stabilizing and expanding the influence of the House of Savoy.
Amadeus VI’s ability to navigate the complex French and Italian political landscapes of the time, combined with alliances such as his marriage to Bonne, helped solidify the House of Savoy’s ascendancy in European affairs. This matrimonial alliance exemplified the broader dynamics of marriage as a tool for political strategy during the Middle Ages.