Fernando de Borja y Aragón facts for kids

Fernando de Borja y Aragón (born in 1583 in Lisboa, died in 1665 in Madrid) was an important Spanish nobleman. He belonged to two famous families, the House of Borja and the House of Castro. He held several important titles, including the third Count of Mayalde and the Prince of Esquilache. He also served as a Viceroy, which was like a governor for the king in different parts of Spain.

Fernando's Early Life and Career

Fernando was the son of Juan de Borja y Castro, the first Count of Mayalde. His mother was Francisca de Aragón y Barreto. As a child, Fernando served at the royal court. He worked for Empress María de Austria y Portugal and later for Philip II of Spain.

When he was 20, Philip III of Spain gave him land and a noble title. Fernando was then sent as an ambassador to important cities like Savoy, Florence, and Rome. An ambassador is someone who represents their country in another country.

In 1621, the new king, Philip IV of Spain, gave Fernando even more important roles. He was named a Gentilhombre de cámara con ejercicio, which meant he was a gentleman of the king's chamber with special duties. He also became the Viceroy of Aragon. A Viceroy was a high-ranking official who ruled a region in the king's name. Fernando held this position until 1632.

In 1635, he was made the Viceroy of Valencia. He stayed in this role for five years until 1640, when the king called him back to court. He then became the Sumiller de Corps for the Prince of Asturias, Balthasar Charles. This was a very important role in the royal household.

Later Life and Family

In 1649, Fernando's wife passed away. Later, in 1658, his older brother died. This meant Fernando inherited all of his brother's noble titles.

In 1651, after another powerful nobleman died, King Philip IV gave Fernando the title of Caballerizo mayor. This was the last time King Philip IV gave out such a title.

Fernando de Borja y Aragón died in 1665. This was the same year that King Philip IV also passed away. Fernando was known to have exchanged letters with Mary of Jesus of Ágreda, who was a spiritual writer and an adviser to the king.

Marriage and Children

While Fernando was the Viceroy of Aragon, he married his niece, María Francisca de Borja y Aragón. She was the daughter of his older brother, Francisco de Borja y Aragón. His brother later gave up his title as Prince of Esquilache to Fernando. Fernando's wife died in 1649.

See also

In Spanish: Fernando de Borja para niños