Monteros de Espinosa facts for kids

Babel Tower, by Pieter Brueghel the Elder. This painting shows a Dutch idea about the Habsburg Emperor, with his Monteros nearby.

The Monteros de Espinosa are a very old and special group of bodyguards in Europe. They have protected the rulers of Spain for over a thousand years! Imagine having a job that has lasted since the year 1006. They are still part of the Spanish Royal Guard today.

Who Are the Monteros de Espinosa?

The Monteros de Espinosa are known as the oldest bodyguard unit in Europe. They were first created by the Counts of Castile around the year 1006. These counts were early rulers in what is now Spain. The Monteros continued to serve the kings and queens who later ruled these lands.

A Special Kind of Guard

At first, this group was very small. It had only five to nine men. They were like other famous bodyguards from history, such as the Houscarls or the Somatophylakes who protected Alexander the Great. These guards stayed very close to their rulers, going with them everywhere.

Over time, their numbers grew. During the time of Emperor Charles, their group became much larger. He increased their number from 48 to 75. This was mainly to guard his mother, Queen Joan, day and night. The King himself was their main leader. If the King was not there, his trusted helper, the Constable of Castile, would lead them.

Where Did They Come From?

Being a Montero was a special honor. Only certain noblemen, called Hidalgos, could join. These hidalgos came from the old mountain areas of the County of Castile. Specifically, you had to be born in or near Espinosa de los Monteros. This town in northern Burgos gave the unit its name. The King could ask these hidalgos to serve at any time, or they could ask to join.

What Did the Monteros Do?

Over the years, the Monteros' duties became more specific. They were mainly responsible for guarding the monarchs at night. They also handled the most important and private moments.

Important Duties and Honors

They had the special honor of guarding the monarchs' private rooms. They also directly protected the royal family when they were sick. After a monarch passed away, the Monteros were responsible for carrying the royal body to its burial place. They were also present for very personal royal events. These included births, baptisms, marriages, and coronations. They were involved in the most private parts of a monarch's life.

Changing Roles Over Time

As time went on, their job became less about fighting. It became more like the duties of other palace guards, such as the Gentlemen at Arms or the Yeomen of the Guard. These groups mostly work within the royal palaces. The last time the Monteros went to war with their monarch was during the Carlist Wars. They were with Carlos VII during these conflicts.

See also

In Spanish: Montero de Espinosa para niños