Juan de Urbieta facts for kids

Juan de Urbieta Berástegui y Lezo (born in Hernani, Spain, date unknown – died 22 August 1553) was a brave Basque soldier. He became famous for capturing Francis I of France, the King of France, during the Battle of Pavia on 24 February 1525.

Capturing a King

Near the end of the Battle of Pavia, King Francis I of France and his guards were surrounded by enemy soldiers. They were fighting on foot and tried to escape. But the King's horse was killed, and when he stood up again, a sword was pointed at his neck.

It was the sword of Juan de Urbieta. This Basque soldier, along with Diego Dávila and Alonso Pita da Veiga, accepted the King's surrender. They didn't know who their captive was at first. But his fancy clothes and armor showed he was a very important person. They were surprised when they handed him over to their officers and learned they had captured the King of France!

Rewards and Later Life

Because of this brave act, Juan de Urbieta became very famous and received many honors. Emperor Charles V gave him a special coat-of-arms and a document praising his actions.

Juan de Urbieta was promoted to a cavalry officer. He also received important titles like Knight of Santiago and "Contino de Su Majestad" (which meant he was a trusted member of the King's household). Even King Francis I of France wrote him a letter, thanking him for accepting his surrender and letting him live.

Juan de Urbieta died on 22 August 1553 in Hernani, Spain, the same town where he was born. He was buried inside the church of Saint John the Baptist, as he had wished. His burial place was disturbed by French soldiers later during the Peninsular War.

See also

In Spanish: Juan de Urbieta para niños