Grand Duchess Maria Alexandrovna was born on July 17, 1853, in St. Petersburg, Russia. She was the daughter of Emperor Alexander II and Empress Maria Alexandrovna. In 1874, she married Duke Alfred of Edinburgh, becoming the Duchess of Edinburgh and later the Duchess of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Maria Alexandrovna was known for her artistic talents and interest in music. She played a significant role in the cultural life of her time, hosting salons and promoting the arts. She spent much of her later life in England and Germany, where she contributed to various charitable causes.