Íñigo Vélez de Guevara, 8th Count of Oñate facts for kids
Íñigo Vélez de Guevara (1597–1658) was an important Spanish political figure and nobleman. He held the title of 8th Count of Oñate. He played a big role in Spanish politics and government during his lifetime.
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Life and Career
Íñigo Vélez de Guevara was born in 1597. His father was also named Íñigo Vélez de Guevara, and his mother was Catalina Vélez, the 5th Countess of Oñate. He had a younger brother named Beltrán, who later became the Viceroy of Sardinia.
Diplomatic Roles
Íñigo Vélez de Guevara served as a Spanish ambassador in two very important cities: London (in England) and Rome (in Italy). An ambassador is a high-ranking diplomat who represents their country in another nation. This shows he was trusted with important international relations.
Role in Naples
He became well-known for his actions in the city of Naples, which was part of the Spanish Empire at the time. In 1647, a big rebellion happened in Naples, led by a man named Masaniello. Íñigo Vélez de Guevara played a key part in ending this revolt. He was the one who finally brought an end to the "Neapolitan Republic", which was a short-lived government formed by the rebels. To celebrate this victory, he ordered the creation of the Fontana della Sellaria, a famous fountain.
Viceroy of Naples
After successfully dealing with the rebellion, he was made the viceroy of the Kingdom of Naples in 1648. A viceroy is like a governor who rules a country or province as the representative of a king or queen. While he was viceroy, he successfully defended Naples from an attack by French forces during the Franco-Spanish War (1635). You can find more about the viceroys of Naples here: List of Spanish Viceroys of Naples.
Return to Spain
When he returned to Spain, he was recognized for his service. He became a State Councilor, which meant he advised the King on important matters. He also received a new noble title, becoming the Marqués de Guevara.
Family Life
Íñigo Vélez de Guevara married Antonia Manrique de la Cerda. They had two daughters:
- Catalina, who first married her uncle Beltrán Vélez Ladrón de Guevara. Later, she married Ramiro Núñez de Guzmán, who was the Duke of Medina de las Torres and also a viceroy of Naples.
- Mariana, who married Juan Domingo Ramírez de Arellano.
See also
In Spanish: Íñigo Vélez de Guevara el Mozo para niños
