Treaty of Madrid (1621) facts for kids

The Treaty of Madrid was an important agreement signed on April 26, 1621. It helped to settle a conflict over a key valley called the Valtelline in Europe. This treaty was signed by François de Bassompierre, a French courtier (someone who advises a king).

This agreement brought peace to a region that was causing tension between powerful countries like France and Spain. It also protected the rights of people living there.

What Was the Treaty of Madrid (1621)?

The Treaty of Madrid was a peace agreement made in 1621. It aimed to solve problems about who controlled the Valtelline valley. This valley was very important because it was a direct route through the Alps mountains. Controlling it meant controlling trade and military movements between different parts of Europe.

Who Was Involved in the Treaty?

The main people involved in this treaty were:

• France: Represented by François de Bassompierre, a key figure in the French court. The French King, Louis XIII, was a guarantor, meaning he promised the treaty would be followed.
• Spain: Spain had interests in the region because of its connections to other parts of Europe.
• The Grisons: This was a group of independent states in what is now Switzerland. They originally controlled the Valtelline valley.
• The Swiss Confederation: Like King Louis XIII, the Swiss Confederation also guaranteed the treaty. This meant they helped make sure both sides kept their promises.

What Did the Treaty Decide?

The Treaty of Madrid had several important points:

• Valtelline Returned: The treaty said that the Valtelline valley would be given back to the Grisons. This was a big win for them, as they had lost control of it earlier.
• Spanish in Chiavenna: Even though the Valtelline went back to the Grisons, the Spanish were allowed to take back control of Chiavenna. This was another important town in the region.
• Religious Freedom: A very important part of the treaty was about religion. It promised that Protestants living in the Valtelline could practice their faith freely. This was called "religious amnesty," meaning they would not be punished for their beliefs.
• Spain's Promise: The Spanish government also agreed not to use certain mountain passes in the Valtelline. This was to avoid opening a new "Italian front" in their ongoing wars in other parts of Europe, like the Low Countries (modern-day Netherlands and Belgium) and Germany.

Why Was This Treaty Important?

The Treaty of Madrid (1621) was important because it helped to calm down a tense situation in Europe. The control of the Valtelline valley was a big deal for military and trade routes. By settling this dispute, the treaty helped prevent a larger conflict from breaking out in that specific area. It also showed how different European powers tried to balance their interests and avoid more wars.

See also

• List of treaties

In Spanish: Tratado de Madrid (1621) para niños