Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna facts for kids

Prince Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna by Jacob Ferdinand Voet, around 1684–89.

Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna (born 1637, died 1689) was an important Italian nobleman. He belonged to the powerful Colonna family. He held important titles like the 8th Duke and Prince of Paliano. He was also the Grand Constable of the Kingdom of Naples. This was a very high position, passed down through his family. He was also a special member of the Order of the Golden Fleece, a famous group of knights.

Early Life and Family Connections

Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna was born in Rome. His father was Marcantonio V Colonna, who was also the Prince of Paliano. His mother was Isabella Gioeni Cardona. Lorenzo had many important family connections. For example, his aunt, Anna Colonna, married Taddeo Barberini, the Prince of Palestrina. Lorenzo became a Knight of the Golden Fleece at the same time as his cousin, Maffeo Barberini.

Marriage and Influence

Maria Mancini Colonna by Jacob Ferdinand Voet

In 1661, Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna married Maria Mancini. Maria was the niece of Cardinal Mazarin, a very powerful French leader. Before marrying Lorenzo, Maria had been admired by Louis XIV, the King of France. Their relationship was a special one. After their wedding, Lorenzo famously said he was surprised to find Maria was still a virgin. He said he did not expect to find "innocence among the loves of kings."

Lorenzo and Maria were big supporters of the arts. They helped many artists and had a lot of influence in Rome and Italy. Artists like Nicolò Minato and Francesco Cavalli dedicated their works to the Colonna family. Even though Lorenzo married a French noblewoman, his family usually supported Spain's interests in Italy. The Colonna family's rivals in Rome, the Orsini and Barberini families, often supported France.

Later Life and Separation

After their third son was born, Lorenzo and Maria's relationship became difficult. Maria was concerned about having more children. She also worried about Lorenzo's unfaithfulness.

On May 29, 1672, Maria Mancini left Rome. She was worried for her safety. Her sister, Hortense Mancini, went with her. Maria did not return to Italy until after Lorenzo's death in 1689.

Between 1678 and 1681, Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna served as the Viceroy of Aragon in Spain. This was an important political role.

Children

Lorenzo Onofrio Colonna and Maria Mancini had three sons:

• Filippo II Colonna (1663-1714)
• Marcantonio Colonna (1664-1715)
• Cardinal Carlo Colonna (1665-1739)

Lorenzo also had two other children with Countess Ortensia Stella. He recognized them in his will.

See also

In Spanish: Lorenzo Onofre Colonna para niños