Francesco Maria Carafa facts for kids
Francesco Maria Carafa (died 1642) was an important Italian nobleman. He was the 5th Duke of Nochera and a special knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece. He also served as a viceroy (a ruler acting for the king) in Aragon and Navarre. Carafa was a military leader who commanded soldiers loyal to King Philip IV of Spain.
Life Story
Francesco Maria Carafa married Anna Pignatelli, who was the Marquess of Belmonte. Later, he married Giovanna Ruffo. In 1610, he changed his land ownership. He sold the town of Tiriolo to the Duke of Messina.
In 1625, he took part in the Siege of Breda, a famous battle. After that, he joined the Neapolitan cavalry (soldiers on horseback) in Lombardy. Five years later, in 1630, he became a "Master of the Field" in the area near Piedmont and Monferrato. This was a high military rank.
In 1633, his troops fought in the Battle of Nördlingen against the Swedish Empire. Carafa's forces won a big victory for Spain. He then went to Flanders to support Cardinal-Infante Ferdinand of Austria. Later, King Philip IV called him back to Spain. He was made "Commander General" in Guipúzcoa. His job was to help with a plan to invade France, but this plan did not succeed.
In 1639, Carafa was chosen to be the viceroy and "Captain General" of Aragon. He also became a Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece, a very respected award. The next year, he was named viceroy and "Captain General" of Navarre, which was next to Aragon.
In 1641, Carafa disagreed with the government's policies. He especially questioned the plans of Gaspar de Guzmán, Count-Duke of Olivares regarding the Catalan Revolt. Because of this disagreement, he was put in prison. He died in prison the following year, in 1642. After his death, a trial was held, and he was found innocent of any wrongdoing.
What He Left Behind
Every year in May, the people of Nocera dress up in old costumes. They watch actors play Carafa and his bride. This ceremony celebrates their marriage.
