Queen Mariana Victoria of Spain was born on December 31, 1718, in Lisbon, Portugal. She was the daughter of King John V of Portugal and Maria Anna of Austria. Mariana Victoria became the queen consort of Spain by marrying Ferdinand VI of Spain in 1739. Her marriage strengthened ties between the two countries. Mariana Victoria was known for her intelligence and cultural interests. She played a significant role in the Spanish court, promoting arts and education. After her husband's death in 1759, she retired from public life and returned to Portugal, where she lived until her death on May 15, 1781.