Medina del Río Seco: The Rise and Fall of the Enríquez Family in the Italian Wars
At the heart of Spanish history, one name resonates strongly: Medina del Río Seco. This small village, located in the province of Valladolid, was the epicenter of the greatness of the Enríquez family, one of the most powerful dynasties of Spanish nobility. Throughout the 16th century, the Mediterranean became a chessboard where the Enríquez, driven by their unbridled ambition, ventured into the Italian Wars, seeking not only territorial dominance but also the recognition and power that would enable them to perpetuate their legacy. However, like any story of grandeur, there is also a backdrop of decadence, waste, and ruin that deserves exploration.
The Enríquez: A Rising Dynasty
To understand the magnitude of the Enríquez family, it is essential to go back in time and observe their origins. The family traces its roots to the 15th century, with Don Álvaro Enríquez, who was a prominent noble at the court of Castile. Medina del Río Seco became their stronghold, a place where power and wealth intertwined with history. Over time, the family established itself as one of the most influential in Spanish politics and economy.
The marriage of Don Juan Enríquez de Mendoza to Doña Isabel de Silva in 1514 marked a milestone in the history of the Enríquez. This union not only strengthened their position but also allowed them to access vast territories in Castile and León. The family amassed wealth through their agricultural and livestock holdings in the lands surrounding Medina del Río Seco.
Historical documents, such as the notarial protocols from the Provincial Historical Archive of Valladolid, reveal that by the mid-16th century, the Enríquez possessed a fortune estimated at over 100,000 ducats, an exorbitant sum for the time. But this wealth was not only used to maintain their e...