Nobility obliged

From 1769, Kunigunde lived at her brother's court and enjoyed all the perks of a privileged lifestyle, including balls, theater performances, and concerts. She also participated in hunts, tournaments, and target practice. Her regency as Princess-Abbess of the Imperial Abbey of Essen - the most prestigious in the Roman Empire - provided her with considerable annual income. In addition, she was an incredible businesswoman and entrepreneur, supporting and promoting the iron industry around Essen, acquiring several ironworks, and ordering the construction of toll roads.

Kunigunde and her sister were members of the still-existing Order of the Star Cross for Catholic ladies of high nobility, which was established in 1668 by Empress Eleonore to promote devotion to the Holy Cross, virtuous living, and charitable acts. They were also members of the Order of Saint Elizabeth, which was founded by Elisabeth Auguste of Sulzbach in 1766 to honor Saint Elizabeth and perform acts of charity for the poor and needy.