Antonio Álvarez de Toledo, 5th Duke of Alba facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Most Excellent
Antonio Álvarez de Toledo
5th Duke of Alba GE
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born |
Antonio Álvarez de Toledo y Beaumont
1568 |
| Died | 29 January 1639 (aged 70–71) |
Antonio Álvarez de Toledo y Beaumont (1568 – 29 January 1639) was an important Spanish nobleman and politician. He was known as the 5th Duke of Alba. This was a very high-ranking title in Spain. He also held other important titles like the 6th Count of Lerín.
Biography
Antonio was the grandson of a famous general, Fernando Álvarez de Toledo, 3rd Duke of Alba, often called the "Iron Duke." Antonio became the 5th Duke of Alba when his uncle, Fadrique Álvarez de Toledo, 4th Duke of Alba, passed away without children.
In 1599, King Philip III of Spain gave Antonio a special award. It was called the Order of the Golden Fleece. This was a very prestigious honor.
Viceroy of Naples
Antonio served as the viceroy of Naples from 1622 to 1629. A viceroy was like a governor who ruled a region in the king's name. During his time in Naples, Antonio faced many challenges.
- There was a war over the Valtellina valley in Italy.
- In 1624, people faced a bad harvest. This caused food prices to become very high.
- A big 1626 Naples earthquake hit the city. Nearly 10,000 people died.
- Turkish pirates often attacked the coast.
- The prime minister of Spain, Conde-Duque de Olivares, often asked for money and supplies.
Royal Household Chief
In 1629, King Philip IV of Spain gave Antonio another important job. He made him his Mayordomo mayor. This meant Antonio was the chief of the King's Royal Household. He was in charge of the king's personal staff and daily life.
Family Life
Antonio married Mencía de Mendoza. She was the daughter of Íñigo López de Mendoza y Mendoza, 5th Duke of the Infantado. Antonio and Mencía had three children together:
- Fernando Álvarez de Toledo (1595–1667), who later became the next Duke of Alba.
- María Álvarez de Toledo
- Ana Álvarez de Toledo
See also
In Spanish: Antonio Álvarez de Toledo y Beaumont para niños
