Álvaro Pérez de Castro facts for kids
Álvaro Pérez de Castro, sometimes called "the Castilian," was an important nobleman from Castile. He lived a long time ago, in the 1200s. He was known for serving different kings and rulers, both Christian and Muslim, during a time of many changes in Spain. He passed away in a place called Orgaz in the year 1240.
Biography
Early Life and Family
Álvaro was the son of Pedro Fernández de Castro and Jimena Gomez. His family was very important in the kingdom of Castile.
Serving Kings
Álvaro Pérez de Castro worked for King Alfonso IX of León many times. He held important positions like Mayordomo mayor, which was a top official in the royal household. He also acted as the King's representative.
Later, Álvaro Pérez de Castro served Muslim rulers in the city of Jaén. In 1225, he helped defend Jaén. He led 160 Christian knights in a successful defense against an army. This army was led by Ferdinand III of Castile, a Christian king.
After this battle, Álvaro Pérez de Castro helped make peace. He negotiated a truce between Castile and Granada. As part of the agreement, 1,300 Christian prisoners were set free. This act made King Ferdinand of Castile think highly of him.
From then on, Álvaro Pérez de Castro served King Ferdinand of Castile. King Ferdinand trusted him with important castles. These included the strongholds of Andújar and Martos. He was also made the King's representative. This role covered border fortresses in Andalusia and the city of Cordoba. He helped King Ferdinand conquer Cordoba in 1236. He also led Christian forces to victory. They defeated the Muslims at the Battle of Jerez in 1231.
Marriages
Álvaro Pérez de Castro was married two times.
His first marriage was in 1212. He married Aurembiaix, who later became the Countess of Urgel. She was the daughter of Count Ermengol VIII of Urgell. However, this marriage was later canceled in 1228.
He married a second time to Mencía López de Haro. She later became the queen of Portugal. Mencía was the daughter of Lope Díaz II de Haro, a powerful lord. Her mother was Urraca Alfonso de León, who was also a daughter of King Alfonso IX of León.
Álvaro Pérez de Castro did not have any children from his marriages. He was buried in the Monastery of Santa María de Valbuena. His father had also been buried there.
See Also
In Spanish: Álvaro Pérez de Castro el Castellano para niños
