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Adélaïde de Savoie
(1092–1154)

Other names: Alix, Agnes

Biographical

One of the most dominant of French queens, Adélaïde became involved in politics and was an advisor to her husband. As queen consort, she wielded power and exercised her royal authority, signing charters, making legal decisions, and appointing officials. After Louis VI died, she continued to be an influence in matters of state. She played an active role in the downfall of French chancellor Etienne de Garlande, and later she conspired against the abbot of St Denis which caused a quarrel between her and her son Louis VII. He exiled her and her husband to her lands in Compiègne. She had founded the abbey at Montmartre and retired there in 1153. Her tomb was destroyed during the French Revolution.

Place of death: Montmartre
Place of burial: Abbey of Montmartre

Daughter of Humbert II de Savoie and Gisèle de Bourgogne. She was married firstly to Louis VI of France in 1115, with issue, and secondly to Matthieu I de Montmorency in 1138.

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