Bernardino Fernández de Velasco, 1st Duke of Frías facts for kids
Don Bernardino Fernández de Velasco, 1st Duke of Frías (born around 1450 – died February 9, 1512) was an important Spanish nobleman and a brave military leader. He played a big part in the final years of the Reconquista, which was a long period when Christian kingdoms took back control of Spain from Muslim rule.
Bernardino was born in Burgos, a city in Spain. His father was Don Pedro Fernández de Velasco, 2nd Count of Haro, who was also known as the Constable of Castille. This was a very high-ranking military position. His mother was Doña Mencía de Mendoza y Figueroa, whose father was the famous Marquis of Santillana. So, Bernardino came from a very powerful and respected family.
A Leader in the Reconquista
Bernardino took part in the important conquest of Granada. This was the final battle of the Reconquista, where the Christian armies captured the last Muslim stronghold in Spain. Sadly, his father died during this conquest.
After the victory, Bernardino became one of the first Viceroys of Granada. A Viceroy is like a governor who rules a region on behalf of the king and queen. On March 20, 1492, the Catholic Monarchs (King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella) gave him the special title of Duke of Frías. This showed how much they valued his service.
Family Life
Bernardino was married twice. His first wife was Doña Blanca de Herrera. They had a daughter named Ana Herrera de Velasco. Ana later married the Count-Duke of Benavente, another important nobleman.
After Doña Blanca passed away, Bernardino married Doña Juana de Aragón. She was a daughter of King Ferdinand II of Aragon. Bernardino and Juana had a daughter named Doña Juliana de Velasco y Aragón. Juliana later became the 1st Countess of Castilnovo. She also married her cousin and became the Duchess of Frías.
Bernardino did not have any sons who could inherit his titles directly. So, after he died, his younger brother, Don Íñigo Fernández de Velasco, 2nd Duke of Frías, took over his important titles and responsibilities.
See also
In Spanish: Bernardino Fernández de Velasco y Mendoza para niños
