Bernardino de Cárdenas, 3rd Duke of Maqueda facts for kids

Bernardino de Cárdenas y Portugal (born in Torrijos on January 20, 1553 – died in Palermo on December 17, 1601) was an important Spanish noble and a statesman. A statesman is someone who is skilled in managing government affairs. He held important titles like the 3rd Duke of Maqueda and the 2nd Marquis of Elche.

Bernardino was the son of Bernardino de Cárdenas y Pacheco, who was the 2nd Duke of Maqueda. His mother was Isabel de Velasco. Her father was Íñigo Fernández de Velasco, 2nd Duke of Frías, who held a high position called the Constable of Castile.

Important Roles in Government

Bernardino de Cárdenas y Portugal served as a Viceroy. A Viceroy was like a governor who ruled a country or province in the name of a king or queen. He was chosen by the Spanish King to govern important regions.

Viceroy of Catalonia

From 1593 to 1597, Bernardino de Cárdenas y Portugal was the Viceroy of Catalonia. Catalonia is a region in northeastern Spain. During his time there, he helped manage the region's affairs for the Spanish Crown.

Viceroy of Sicily

Later, from 1598 until his death in 1601, he served as the Viceroy of Sicily. Sicily is a large island in the Mediterranean Sea, which was also part of the Spanish Empire at that time. He played a key role in governing this important territory.

Family Life and Titles

Bernardino de Cárdenas y Portugal married Luisa Manrique de Lara. She was the 5th Duchess of Nájera. Together, they had four sons and two daughters. After his death, his eldest son who was still alive, Jorge de Cárdenas y Manrique de Lara, took over his titles and responsibilities. Bernardino held the title of Duke of Maqueda from 1560 until his death in 1601.

See also

• In Spanish: Bernardino de Cárdenas y Portugal para niños