Leopold Ignaz Joseph, Prince of Dietrichstein

After his older brother Sigmund Franz on 26 August 1667 left him as the new Hereditary Prince (Erbprinz), Leopold Ignaz Joseph had an aristocratic and chivalrous upbringing, during which he resided some time in Paris, where he acquired the pomp and extravagant attitude after whom he was remembered in later generations.

Due to the high position and authority of his father, Prince Ferdinand Joseph, at court, he had great hopes and expectations for his future.

Historian Rostislav Smíšek refers to some rumours about the young prince that circulated at court,[1] which in 1685 completely stopped the progress of Leopold Ignaz Joseph in the political hierarchy.

Prince Ferdinand Joseph managed to protect his son, but his career was halted for a long time: for many years, he only had the functions of Kämmerer and Privy Councillor.

Being the only child of her parents, Maria Godofreda inherited from her mother the Counties of Gleen, Amstenrald and Wachtendonk.