Urraca of Covarrubias facts for kids
Urraca of Castile was an important woman in the history of Castile, a kingdom in what is now Spain. She lived a long time ago, dying sometime after January 1038. Urraca helped rule Castile as a co-regent when her nephew, García Sánchez of Castile, was too young to rule by himself. This was between the years 1017 and 1028.
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Urraca's Early Life and Family
Urraca was the daughter of García Fernández, who was the Count of Castile. Her mother was Ava de Ribagorza.
A Special Gift and the Infantado
On November 24, 978, Urraca's parents gave her a very special gift. They gave her the town of Covarrubias and many other lands and properties across Castile. She also received the Abbey of Saint Cosme and Saint Damian, along with other villages and salt mines in Álava.
All these properties became known as the Infantado. This was a special collection of lands and buildings. In the future, it would be given to any infanta, or daughter of a Castilian count, who chose to remain single and not marry.
Becoming an Abbess
The official document that created the Infantado also marked Urraca's decision to become a nun at the monastery. Many important people were there to witness this event. Her parents and her siblings, Sancho, Gonzalo, and Toda, were present. Her aunt Fronilde Fernández was also there. Even King Sancho II of Pamplona and his wife, Urraca's aunt Urraca Fernández, witnessed the ceremony.
Urraca's other sisters, Mayor, Elvira García of Castile, and Oneca, were likely not born yet or were too young to attend. After becoming a nun, Urraca became the abbess, which means she was the leader of the monastery.
Urraca as a Ruler
After her brother Sancho died, Urraca took on a very important role. She helped rule Castile because her nephew, García Sánchez of Castile, was still a child. This is called being a "co-regent."
Sharing Power in Castile
Urraca shared this important job with several other powerful people. These included Jimena Fernández, who was the widow of King García Sánchez II of Pamplona. Jimena's son, King Sancho III of Pamplona, also helped rule. And Queen Muniadona, who was Urraca's niece and the king's wife, was also part of this group.
Urraca's name appears in old records for the last time on January 1, 1038. This record was found at the Monastery of San Pedro de Arlanza.
Urraca's Legacy
Today, a tower in the town of Covarrubias is named after Urraca. This shows that she was an important figure in the history of the region.
See also
In Spanish: Urraca de Covarrubias para niños
