Christina of Sweden: the rebellious monarch who scandalized 17th century Europe

Christina was raised like a prince, learning classical texts, foreign languages and practicing horseback riding and fencing. After her father's death, she ascended the throne at age six.

According to his biographers, she was intelligent, well-read, and interested in philosophy and astronomy. She even hired René Descartes as one of her tutors.

At the age of 20, the Royal Council began to ask about a marriage and an heir; the queen flatly refused and preferred to abdicate the throne in 1654.

She went to live in Rome and converted to Catholicism, which often conflicted with her restless spirit and lifestyle.

Nowadays, Christina is considered an LGBTI historical icon. Her lady-in-waiting, Ebba Sparre, was said to be her lover, as suggested in surviving letters between them. Likewise, many historians claim Christina was treated as a man in court, accompanied by her allegedly masculine demeanor and behavior.