The Archives of Medina Sidonia: 6 Million Documents That Chronicle 700 Years of History
In the heart of Andalusia, a collection of documents preserves the echoes of a golden age while simultaneously recounting the laments of an irreparable decline. The archives of Medina Sidonia are not mere papers; they are a living testament to over 700 years of history, power, and ambition. It is estimated that this monumental collection contains more than six million documents, some dated from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, and each one is a window into a world that, though no longer exists, continues to resonate today.
From the political intrigues of the nobility to the dazzling banquets that set the rhythm of aristocratic life, these historical documents promise to unveil the splendor and ruin of one of the most influential noble houses in Spain. But what secrets lie hidden in the archives of Medina Sidonia? What stories of greatness and decline does this vast collection tell?
The Grandeur of the House of Medina Sidonia
The House of Medina Sidonia was one of the most powerful and ancient of the Spanish nobility. Founded in the 13th century, its history is marked by complex relationships with the Crown and other noble families. Over time, it became a symbol of extreme wealth and absolute power. Documents such as the “Letters of the House of Medina Sidonia” and various wills preserved in the archives reveal a lineage that not only accumulated land and riches but also forged strategic alliances through marriages with other noble houses like the Dukes of Alba and the Counts of Olivares.
In the 16th century, under the command of Alonso Pérez de Guzmán, the 7th Duke of Medina Sidonia, the family reached its zenith. In 1588, their name was etched in history when he was appointed commander of the Invincible Armada. Documents such as the “Report on the...