More about Margaret

Oudenaarde, summer 1522. Margaret of Parma is born, the first child of Charles V. Her mother, Johanna Van der Gheynst, is a local maid. This low status does not prevent Margaret from becoming governor of the Netherlands at 37. This art lover is among the most powerful figures in the turbulent Europe of her time, the early days of the Eighty Years’ War.

Oudenaarde, summer 1582. During the war, Alexander Farnese conquers the city, which had been under the control of the Protestant Beggars. Farnese is the son of Margaret of Parma. In gratitude, the city presents him with the “Alexander Tapestries.”

The new Margaret

Margaret’s life spans the 16th century, a turbulent period in the Low Countries and Europe. The heyday of the first half of the century culminates in a time of increasing tensions and revolts: religious, economic, political. It is the beginning of the Eighty Years’ War (1568–1648), which will lead to the separation of the Netherlands. Margaret tries to mediate between all the conflicting forces and interests.

An administrator of great ability, considerable influence and solid political qualities. A true art lover and patron. A woman who plays an important role in the Europe of her time: this image of Margaret is alive and well in Italy. It contradicts the clichéd image prevalent in northern Europe today: a woman in the shadow of power, without much vigor or vision. That is the fate of many women in power from the past. The exhibition in Oudenaarde proves otherwise. Margaret is a fascinating early modern woman who showed