Peter of Aragon (heir of Sicily) facts for kids

Peter (born 17 November 1398 – died 16 August or 8 November 1400) was the only son of Queen Maria and King Martin I of Sicily. He was the heir apparent, meaning he was next in line to become king. Peter was a member of the House of Barcelona, a very important royal family.

Peter's Early Life

Peter was the only son of Queen Maria and King Martin I of Sicily. He was born on 17 November 1398 at Ursino Castle in Catania, a city in Sicily. His birth was a big event because his parents had been waiting a long time for a child.

A Royal Welcome

Even though his birth name was Frederick, following Sicilian traditions, he was baptized as Peter. This special ceremony happened on 29 April 1399 at Ursino Castle. The birth of a son brought great happiness not only to the Kingdom of Sicily but also to the Kingdom of Aragon.

Hope for the Future

In Aragon, Peter was second in line to the throne after his father. His birth helped solve who would rule next in Sicily and also ensured the royal family would continue in Aragon. His grandfather, King Martin of Aragon, was very happy about Peter's birth. He even wrote a letter about it in February 1399. This was a very successful time for the King of Aragon, and the House of Barcelona royal family seemed to be doing very well.

An Unexpected End

Sadly, Peter died in an accident when he was almost two years old. This happened on 16 August or 8 November 1400 in Catania. He was killed by a spear during a tournament. His death made his mother, Queen Maria, very sad. She passed away the next year from the plague.

Peter was buried at the Cathedral of St Agatha in Catania. He was laid to rest next to his grandparents, Frederick III the Simple and Constance of Aragon. His mother, Queen Maria, was also buried there the following year.