Princess Maria Eleanora of Brandenburg was born on November 18, 1607, in Berlin, Germany. She was the daughter of George William, Elector of Brandenburg and Elizabeth Charlotte of the Palatinate. Maria Eleanora became known for her marriage to King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden in 1620, which strengthened ties between Sweden and Brandenburg. As a queen consort, Maria Eleanora played a significant role in the cultural life of Sweden. She was known for her patronage of the arts and her interest in architecture. After her husband's death in 1632, she returned to Germany, where she continued to influence the cultural landscape.