Mary Vetsera was an Austrian noblewoman born on February 19, 1856. She is best known for her romantic involvement with Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria, the only son of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Their relationship was controversial due to the differences in their social status and the pressures of royal expectations. Tragically, Mary Vetsera and Crown Prince Rudolf died together in a mysterious incident at Mayerling on January 30, 1889. Their deaths were officially ruled a murder-suicide, leading to numerous theories and speculation over the years. The event has since become a significant part of Austrian history and royal lore.