Juan Alfonso Enríquez de Cabrera, 5th Duke of Medina de Rioseco facts for kids
Juan Alfonso Enríquez de Cabrera y Colonna (born March 3, 1599, died February 6, 1647) was an important Spanish nobleman. He held the title of the 5th Duke of Medina de Rioseco. He was also the 9th hereditary Admiral of Castile, a very high military position. He was also the 8th Count of Melgar.
Juan Alfonso became a duke and count when he was only three years old. His father, Luis III Enriquez de Cabrera, passed away. His mother, Lady Vitoria Colonna, took care of him and his titles until he was old enough. She was from important Italian families in Venice and Rome.
A Brave Military Leader
In 1638, Juan Alfonso showed his bravery and skill. He led an army to stop the Siege of Fuenterrabía. This was a battle where French forces, led by Henri, Prince of Condé, were attacking a Spanish town. Juan Alfonso defeated the larger French army. This was a big victory for Spain.
Important Roles in Government
Because of his success, Juan Alfonso was given many important jobs. From 1641 to 1644, he served as the Viceroy of Sicily. A viceroy is like a governor who rules a region in the name of the king. After that, from 1644 to 1646, he became the Viceroy of Naples. Both Sicily and Naples were part of the Spanish kingdom at that time.
He also became a member of the Spanish Council of War. This group advised the king on military matters. He was also part of the Royal Council of Spain, which helped the king make important decisions for the country. His highest position in the royal court was Mayordomo mayor to the King. This meant he was the chief of the king's household.
Family Life
In 1612, Juan Alfonso married Luisa de Sandoval Padilla. Her father, Cristóbal de Sandoval, Duke of Uceda, was a very powerful man. He was the son of the 1st Duke of Lerma, who was like the Prime Minister of Spain.
Juan Alfonso and Luisa had two children. Sadly, their daughter passed away when she was young in Naples. Their son, Juan Gaspar Enríquez de Cabrera y Sandoval, was their only child to live to adulthood. He was born in 1625 and passed away in 1691.
See also
In Spanish: Juan Alfonso Enríquez de Cabrera y Colonna para niños
