The Prince of Piedmont was born in Turin in May 1699. He would remain close to his father all his life who in turn adored his son who was named after him. He was also close to his mother. From birth he was styled as the "Prince of Piedmont". He was the brother of the Princess Maria Adelaide and Queen Maria Luisa of Spain. He acted as regent of the duchy of Savoy in 1713. He was the heir to the Kingdom of Sardinia. There were plans for him to marry Elisabetta Farnese thus linking the duchies of Savoy and Parma by marriage but a union would never take place Elisabetta later marrying Philip V of Spain. Prior to 11 April 1713 the young prince was entitled to the style of "Highness" however after this date he was raised to the style of "Royal Highness". 