Medinaceli and the Reconquista: The Role of the Dukes in the Unification of Spain
The history of Medinaceli, a small and picturesque municipality in the province of Soria, is intertwined with the epic of the Reconquista and the subsequent unification of Spain. Over the centuries, the Ducal House of Medinaceli has been both a witness and a key player in events that have shaped the destiny of the Iberian Peninsula. From the greatness of its dukes to the decline of their lineage, this story is filled with intrigues, conflicts, and countless court secrets that still resonate in the collective memory.
The Origins of the Ducal House of Medinaceli and Its Role in the Reconquista
The Ducal House of Medinaceli was founded by Infante Don Juan de la Cerda in the 14th century, who was granted the duchy in 1368 by King Henry II of Castile. This nobleman, who became the first duke of Medinaceli, played a crucial role in the Reconquista by actively participating in the struggle against the Muslims, seeking not only territorial power but also the restoration of Christian dominion on the peninsula. It is said that the fortress of Medinaceli was a strategic point in the defense of Castile, and its geographical position made it an essential stronghold during the conflict.
Historical documents from the time reveal how the dukes of Medinaceli supported the monarchs in their military campaigns. In 1481, under the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, the duchy became embroiled in the fight for the conquest of Granada, the last Muslim stronghold on the peninsula. The troops of Medinaceli were decisive in several battles, leading to the fall of the city in 1492. This victory not only consolidated the power of the Catholic Monarchs but also established the Ducal House of Medinaceli as one of the most influential families in Spain.