Sophia Courtenay (Blooming Roses)

Sophia Courtenay (28 June 1564 - 31 January 1665) was the eldest child of Anna of Cleves and Edward Courtenay. She was born in Guelders during her parents' first tenure as viceroys of the Duchy. She later was betrothed to the grandson of Fernando Álvarez de Toledo, 3rd Duke of Alba during the Dutch Revolt to help end the conflict.

Early Life
Sophia Courtenay was born as the eldest daughter of Anna of Cleves and Edward Courtenay. Her mother was the younger sister of the ruling Duchess of Cleves and served as viceroy while Duchess Isabella ruled as Queen Consort of England and her father was a descendant of Catherine of York, giving her connections to English royal family by both blood and marriage in addition to her Dutch ancestry. Courtenay was born in Doornenburg Castle, her mother's favorite residence in Guelders. She was joined by a brother in early 1567 before returning to England with her parents. Both Anna and Edward were imprisoned by the king under the suspicion of treason. She and her brother Edward were entrusted to governesses appointed by their aunt, Queen Isabella. Lady Sancha Nevile described Sophia as a bright, happy child.

Return to Guelders
In February of 1569, Anna of Cleves was released from the Tower of London and returned to Doornenburg Castle with her children. Sophia's father joined Edward VI on campaign in France. In 1571, Sophia and her siblings were sent back to England as the Spanish army was nearing Guelders.

Betrothal and Marriage
In 1579, it was determined that