Princess Sophie Helena of Brasland

Princess Sophie of Brasland (1836-1909) was the daughter of Prince Johannes of Brasland.

Her mother died when she was eight and she was mostly raised by his elderly father at a lonely area in the northeastern coast of Brasland. In 1853 her father died, leaving her an orphan. She was invited to live at Court by the King and Queen, and she became a frequent face at royal events. Her private fortune allowed her to live independently and also to support several institutions. In her spare time she liked to play the piano and paint.

In 1862 she met Prince Joseph François de Courtenay, who belonged to a cadet branch of this family. He was an adventurer and a very eccentric man, but his title and connections made him an acceptable candidate for her hand. They married in 1863 and made Lix Castle their home. They had six children: Antoine (born 1865), Yolande (born 1867), Marie (1868-1869), Agnes (1870-1873), Baudouin (1872-1900) and Marguerite (born 1874).

Joseph never lost his taste for adventure and he continued going on expeditions from time to time. Sadly, in 1880 he died after contracting a fatal illness in Sabaristan.

Sophie remained in very good terms with her royal relatives and she was a welcomed guest at Court. She was a very kind and intelligent woman, beloved by the people of Lix and Markund.

She died in 1909.