Elizabeth was engaged at age 10 to Ferenc Nadasdy, the son of Baron Tamas Nadasdy de Nadasd et Fogarasfold and his wife, Orsolya Kanizsays in what was probably a political arrangement within the circles of the aristocracy. As Elizabeth's social standing was higher than that of her husband, she refused to change her last name, remaining a Bathory. The couple married when she was age 14 at the palace of Varannoon 8 May 1575. Approximately 4,500 guests were invited to the wedding. Elizabeth moved to Nadasdy Castle in Sarvar and spent much time on her own, while her husband studied in Vienna.