Juan Alfonso de la Cerda facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jun Alfonso de la Cerda |
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lord of Gibraleón | |
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Arms of the House de la Cerda | |
Spouse(s) | Maria Alfonso of Portugal |
Noble family | House of la Cerda |
Father | Alfonso de la Cerda |
Mother | Matilde of Brienne |
Born | 1295 France |
Died | 7 August 1347 (aged 52) |
Juan Alfonso de la Cerda (born 1295 – died August 7, 1347) was an important noble in medieval Spain. He held the titles of Lord of Gibraleón, Huelva, Real de Manzanares, and Deza. These were significant areas in the Kingdom of Castile.
Juan Alfonso was part of a powerful family. His father was Alfonso de la Cerda. His grandfather was Ferdinand de la Cerda. His mother was Matilde of Brienne. She was the daughter of John I of Brienne, Count of Eu. Juan Alfonso married Maria Alfonso de Portugal. She was the daughter of King Denis of Portugal.
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Who Was Juan Alfonso de la Cerda?
Juan Alfonso de la Cerda was a nobleman. He lived during the 14th century. This was a time when kingdoms in Spain were often at war. They fought against each other and against the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. Nobles like Juan Alfonso played a big role. They led armies and helped their kings.
His Family Background
Juan Alfonso came from a very important family. The House of la Cerda was a branch of the royal family of Castile. This meant he had strong connections. His family had a long history of serving the crown. This background gave him power and influence.
His Role as a Lord
As a lord, Juan Alfonso governed several territories. These included Gibraleón and Huelva. He was responsible for these lands. He managed their resources and protected their people. Being a lord meant he had many duties. He also had a lot of power.
Military Service and Key Battles
Juan Alfonso de la Cerda was a brave military leader. He served King Alfonso XI of Castile. He took part in major battles. These battles were important for the history of Spain.
The Battle of Gibraltar (1333)
In 1333, Juan Alfonso fought in the Battle of Gibraltar. This was a conflict against the Marinid Sultanate. The Marinids were a powerful North African kingdom. They often tried to gain control in Spain. The battle was a tough fight. It showed Juan Alfonso's loyalty to his king.
The Siege of Algeciras (1342-1344)
One of his most famous actions was the Siege of Algeciras (1342-1344). This was a very long siege. It lasted from 1342 to 1344. Algeciras was a key city. It was held by the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. Taking Algeciras was very important. It helped Castile gain more control. Juan Alfonso played a vital part in this victory. The city finally surrendered in 1344.
Legacy and Death
Juan Alfonso de la Cerda died on August 7, 1347. He was 52 years old. He is remembered for his service. He helped King Alfonso XI strengthen Castile. His military efforts were crucial. They helped shape the future of the Iberian Peninsula.
See also
In Spanish: Juan Alfonso de la Cerda para niños