Maria Christina of the Two Sicilies was born on April 14, 1806, in Naples, Italy. She was a member of the royal family of the Two Sicilies, the daughter of King Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies and Maria Carolina of Austria. Maria Christina became the Queen of Spain by marriage to King Ferdinand VII in 1829. As queen consort, Maria Christina played a significant role in Spanish politics during her husband's reign. After Ferdinand VII's death in 1833, she served as regent for their daughter, Isabella II, until Isabella reached adulthood. Maria Christina's influence helped shape the early years of Isabella's reign.