Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein
German noblewoman, mistress of King Carol II of Romania
Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein (1906-1995) was a German-Romanian noblewoman who became one of the most controversial figures in twentieth-century European royal history. Born into the German aristocratic family of Sayn-Wittgenstein, she was known for her beauty, charm, and ambition. She became the mistress of King Carol II of Romania in the early 1930s, a relationship that scandalized European society and had profound implications for Romanian politics and diplomacy. Carol II was deeply devoted to her, and rumors that he might marry her or grant her inappropriate political influence caused considerable alarm among Romanian government officials, the Orthodox Church, and foreign powers. The relationship was a major factor in the king's increasingly autocratic behavior and contributed to political instability in Romania during this volatile period. Corinna wielded considerable informal influence during her time as the king's companion, though the extent of her direct political involvement remains debated by historians. Eventually, political pressure forced the king to distance himself from her. She later returned to Germany and lived a quieter life after World War II. Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein remains a fascinating historical figure representing the intersection of European aristocracy, politics, and scandal.
Historical Figure
German
1906
1995
Thinking about the name
Corinna
Greek origin
“Derived from ancient Greek Korinna, this name evokes the classical world through both history and literature—notably borne by an ancient Greek lyric poet from Thebes. The name likely derives from kore, meaning maiden, and carries connotations of grace, intellect, and artistic sensibility. It's a favorite among parents drawn to classical antiquity and literary heritage.”