Alfonso Fernández Manrique de Lara, 1st Duke of Arco facts for kids
Alonso Manrique de Lara y Silva (born January 11, 1672, in Galisteo, Spain – died March 27, 1737, in Madrid) was an important Spanish nobleman. He was known as the first Duke of Arco and served the Spanish Royal Family for many years.
A Life of Service
Alonso Manrique de Lara y Silva was born into a noble family. His father was Pedro Manrique de Lara, and his mother was Antonia de Silva. In 1695, he married Mariana Enríquez de Portugal.
In 1700, Alonso began working for the new King of Spain, Philip V of Spain. He even fought alongside the King in the War of the Spanish Succession. This was a big war where different countries fought over who should be the next king of Spain.
In 1715, King Philip V gave Alonso the special title of Duke of Arco. This title also came with the important honor of being a Grandee of Spain. A Grandee was a very high-ranking nobleman who had special privileges, like being able to wear his hat in front of the King!
In 1717, Alonso bought some land and had a beautiful country house built there. It was called the Quinta del Duque del Arco. The King trusted Alonso a lot and made him a close friend and advisor. In 1721, Alonso became the King's Caballerizo mayor. This meant he was in charge of the royal stables and everything to do with the King's horses and carriages. He kept this important job even when Philip V briefly gave up his throne to his son, Louis I of Spain, and then became King again after Louis I passed away.
Alonso received more honors for his service. In 1724, he became a Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece. This is one of the oldest and most respected knightly orders in Europe. In 1729, he also became a Knight of the French Order of the Holy Spirit.
Alonso Manrique de Lara y Silva died in 1737. He did not have any children, so his nephew, Francisco de Asís Lasso de la Vega y Manrique, became the next Duke of Arco.
Sources
- Real Academia de la Historia
See also
In Spanish: Alonso Manrique de Lara y Silva para niños
