About Barbara Radziwiłł
Barbara Radziwiłł is one of the most mythical queens in the history of Lithuania and Poland. Her life was short, but she has undoubtedly lived on in stories, legends and artistic interpretations.
Barbara was born in Vilnius into the powerful Radziwiłł family, one of the leading dynasties of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. At an early age she was in the heart of power, but her life took a decisive turn when she married Sigismund II Augustus, King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania.
Their marriage was based on mutual love – something that was unusual in a time when royal marriages were primarily political tools. For this reason, the relationship met with fierce resistance. At court, Barbara's background, influence and legitimacy was questioned. The love between Barbara and Sigismund challenged established power structures and made her a controversial and vulnerable figure.
The Mythical Queen of Poland
Barbara was crowned Queen of Poland, but her reign was short-lived. She died at the age of about 30, shortly after her coronation. The exact cause of death is unknown. Even during her lifetime, rumors began to circulate – about illness, curses, and even poisoning. Today, these stories are considered politically charged myths, but the uncertainty surrounding her death has helped shape the image of Barbara as a mythical queen.
In Lithuania, Barbara Radziwiłł has become a powerful symbol of passion, loss, and female vulnerability at the center of power. Her life has been depicted in paintings, literature, theater, and film – often as the story of a woman whose emotions had political consequences.
In Queens, you will encounter both the historical Barbara Radziwiłł and the stories that have grown up around her. Through unique original objects, art and contemporary visual interpretations, you will be shown how her life came to reflect larger issues of power, love, femininity and memory – then and now.