Francisco de Tutavilla y del Rufo, Duque de San Germán facts for kids
Francisco de Tutavilla y del Tufo, Duke of San Germán, was an important military leader and politician. He was born in Naples, Italy, in 1604 and passed away in Madrid, Spain, on January 30, 1679. He served two Spanish kings, Philip IV of Spain and Charles II of Spain. Francisco held many important titles, including Commander of Peñausende in the Spanish Military Order of Santiago. He was also a Sieur, which means he owned land, in Campana de Albalá and Saucedilla.
Life and Career
Francisco de Tutavilla had a long and active career. He was a general in the Spanish army during the Portuguese Restoration War, which lasted from 1657 to 1663. He led troops in battles like the sieges of Olivenza, Badajoz, and Monção. However, his troops faced tough defeats. They lost at Elvas in 1659 and again at Ameixial in 1663. After these losses, his role in the Portuguese campaign ended.
Becoming a Viceroy
After his military campaigns, Francisco took on important political roles. From April 1664 to February 1668, he served as the Viceroy of Navarre. A viceroy was like a governor, ruling a region on behalf of the king.
Later in 1668, he became the Viceroy of Sardinia. He took over this role after the previous viceroy, Manuel de los Cobos, 4th Marquis of Camarasa, was sadly assassinated. Francisco held the position of Viceroy of Sardinia until January 1673.
His next major role was as Viceroy of Catalonia. He served in this important region from August 1673 to October 1675.
Battles in Catalonia
In 1674, while Viceroy of Catalonia, Francisco de Tutavilla achieved a significant military victory. He captured Fort de Bellegarde, a fort that the French had held since 1659. This fort was important because it was near the border between France and Spain.
He also won the Battle of Maureillas against a French army. This French army was led by Frederick Schomberg, 1st Duke of Schomberg.
However, things changed in 1675. A revolt broke out in Messina against Spanish rule. Francisco had to send many of his soldiers to help stop this rebellion. With fewer troops defending the border, Schomberg was able to take back Bellegarde.
Family Life
Francisco de Tutavilla y del Tufo was married to Catalina de Cárdenas Colón de Toledo y Portugal. She was a Spanish noblewoman with some Portuguese family history. Catalina held important titles herself, including the 14th Countess of la Puebla del Maestre. She was also the 5th Marchioness of Bacares. Catalina passed away in Madrid on January 4, 1701. Francisco and Catalina did not have any children together.
See also
In Spanish: Francisco Tuttavilla para niños
