Restaino Cantelmo-Stuart facts for kids
Restaino Cantelmo-Stuart (born in 1651 in Naples, died on January 16, 1723, in Madrid) was an important military leader. He was the 8th Duke of Pópoli and 3rd Prince of Pettorano. He served the country of Spain and is most famous for leading the Siege of Barcelona (1713–14).
Early Life and Military Career
Restaino Cantelmo-Stuart was the son of Fabrizio Cantelmo-Stuart and Beatriz Brancia. In 1672, he joined the Spanish Army as a cavalry captain. He later became a Maestre de campo, which is a high-ranking officer. He led the Tercio Viejo de Infantería Italiana during the Messina revolt from 1674 to 1678.
When the War of Spanish Succession began, he stayed loyal to Philip V of Spain. In the early years of the war, he fought in Naples. He fought against those who supported Archduke Charles.
In 1705, Restaino Cantelmo-Stuart and his troops from Naples were sent to Barcelona. They were there to defend the city during a siege. However, the city surrendered. Pópoli was allowed to leave with his soldiers. In 1707, Austrian forces took over Naples. His lands were taken away, but they were given back after the Treaty of Vienna (1725).
The Siege of Barcelona
In 1713, Restaino Cantelmo-Stuart was made the first Captain General of Catalonia. He was ordered to capture the last cities that still supported Archduke Charles. The city of Vic surrendered to his forces. The walls of Manresa were also torn down.
He then marched towards Barcelona. He began the siege on August 25. Troops led by Marquis de los Balbases helped him. These troops had left Sicily because of the Treaty of Utrecht.
Pópoli could not capture Barcelona. He did not have enough supplies or soldiers. Also, guerilla fighters attacked his army from behind. He also could not stop supplies from reaching the city by sea. On July 6, 1714, he was replaced by the Duke of Berwick. The Duke of Berwick captured the city 61 days later.
After the siege, Pópoli went to Madrid. He was given the Order of the Golden Fleece, a very important award. In 1715, he became the Minister of Finance and War. In 1716, he became a tutor for Prince of Asturias Luis de Borbón.
See also
In Spanish: Restaino Cantelmo-Stuart para niños
