Mara Branković

Mara Branković, born in 1418, was the daughter of Serbian despot Đurađ Branković and a significant historical figure who became the second wife of Ottoman Sultan Murat II. Sold into marriage to protect her family's interests during a turbulent time for Serbia, she faced a challenging life in the harem, where she struggled to gain her husband's affection. Despite her beauty and noble lineage, her marital life was marked by the Sultan's bisexuality, which limited her influence compared to her predecessor, Olivera Lazarević. After Murat's death, she returned to Serbia and became a respected figure, known for her strong Christian faith and contributions to the church, including her patronage of several monasteries. Mara passed away in 1487 and was buried in the Kosinica Monastery.