Grandee of Spain facts for kids
The Grandees of Spain (pronounced Gran-dees) are the most important members of the Spanish nobility. Think of them as the highest-ranking nobles in Spain. They hold some of the oldest and most important land titles in the country. Over many years, families often married each other, which helped them gather many titles under one noble family.
Today, being a Grandee is mostly about honor and tradition. It does not give them special powers or privileges in the government.
Someone becomes a Grandee if they are granted a Grandeza de España. This usually comes with a noble title, like a Duke. Most ducal titles in Spain also come with the status of a Grandee. Many important people from both Spanish and French noble families have been made Grandees.
How to Address a Grandee
When you talk to a Grandee or their husband/wife, you would use the special title The Most Excellent.
- For a man, it's Excelentísimo Señor (which means "Most Excellent Sir"). It's often shortened to Excmo. Sr..
- For a woman, it's Excelentísima Señora (which means "Most Excellent Lady"). It's often shortened to Excma. Sra..
When their name is written down, you might see "G de E" after it. This stands for "Grandee of Spain."
Famous Grandees
Here are a couple of examples of people who were Grandees:
- Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, 18th Duchess of Alba: She held many noble titles and was a well-known Grandee.
- Marc de Beauvau, Prince of Craon: He was a French noble who was also made a Grandee of Spain.
Images for kids
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This painting from 1862 shows Queen Isabella II on horseback. She is with her husband, Francis, King Consort of Spain, and Infante Francisco de Paula of Spain. Many of the important Spanish leaders and army officers with them were Grandees of Spain.
See also
In Spanish: Grandeza de España para niños
