Princess Maria José of Belgium was born on August 4, 1906, in Rome, Italy. She was the daughter of Prince Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy and Princess Elvira of Savoy. Maria José became the last Queen of the Belgians when she married King Leopold III of Belgium in 1934. During her time as queen, she was known for her charitable work and dedication to social causes. After World War II, she lived in exile due to political tensions in Belgium. Maria José passed away on January 27, 2001, in Switzerland, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and service.