Saint Adelaide was born in the year 931 in Burgundy, France, as the daughter of King Rudolph II of Burgundy. When she was just two years old, she was promised in marriage to Lothaire, the son and heir of Hugh of Provence, who was her father’s political rival.

Lothaire died at a young age, and Saint Adelaide’s life soon became closely tied to the intense struggles for power that marked her time. After his death, she was pursued by several kings and nobles who sought to gain influence through marriage. Facing danger and political pressure, she appealed for help to Otto the Great of Germany. Otto invaded Italy, offered her protection, and later married her, making Saint Adelaide empress.

After the death of Otto the Great on May 7, 973, Saint Adelaide continued to play a strong role in imperial affairs. She exercised considerable influence over her son, Otto II, until tensions arose between them in 978. She then left the court and lived in Burgundy with her brother, King Conrad. Through Conrad’s encouragement, mother and son were reconciled, and before Otto II died in 983, he appointed Saint Adelaide as regent in Italy.

Together with her daughter in law, Empress Theophano, Saint Adelaide defended the rights of her young grandson, Otto III, who was only three years old, to succeed to the German throne. From 985 to 991, she lived in Lombardy. After Theophano’s death in 991, Saint Adelaide returned to Germany and became the sole regent of the empire.

As regent, Saint Adelaide used her authority to strengthen Christian faith across the empire, with special attention to missionary work in northern Europe. She founded and supported many churches, monasteries, and convents, and was known for her generosity toward the poor and those in need. She governed until Otto III came of age in 994.

When Otto III was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 996, Saint Adelaide withdrew from public life. She spent her remaining years in prayer and charity, dedicating herself fully to religious foundations and works of mercy, leaving behind a lasting legacy of faith, service, and leadership.