Medina Sidonia: Corruption and the Duke Who Manipulated Castilian Politics
In the vast landscape of Spanish history, few names resonate with the same blend of grandeur and decline as that of the House of Medina Sidonia. This lineage was not only one of the wealthiest of its time but also stood out for its political cunning and the manipulation it exerted over Castilian politics. The figure of the Duke of Medina Sidonia emerges as a symbol of power, corruption, and extravagance. In this article, we will unveil how this duke became a titan of Spanish nobility, and how his ambition and excess led him down a path of ruin and scandal.
The Rise of the House of Medina Sidonia
The House of Medina Sidonia was founded in the 15th century, with its first holder being Infante Pedro de Guzmán, who was granted the title of Duke in 1484. Since then, the Dukes of Medina Sidonia became one of the most prominent families in Spanish nobility, accumulating vast tracts of land in Andalusia. At its peak, the most famous duke, Alonso Pérez de Guzmán, held wealth and power that few could rival.
This nobleman, who lived from 1550 to 1619, managed the House of Medina Sidonia with an iron fist, becoming the largest landowner in Andalusia. His wealth was evident in his properties, which included the impressive Palace of Medina Sidonia, a symbol of opulence that still stands in Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Historical documents, such as the records of the Royal Audience of Seville, reveal that at its height, the duke possessed over 600,000 ducats, an astronomical sum for the time.
Corruption at Court: A Power Game
Corruption became the common thread of Castilian politics, and Medina Sidonia was no exception. According to accounts from contemporary chroniclers such as the famous Royal Historian, Antonio Pérez, the duke manipulated l