Dukes of Osuna

Dukes Of Osuna

Duke of Osuna was a Spanish noble title awarded in 1562 by King Philip II of Spain to Don Pedro Girón de la Cueva, (Osuna, Sevilla, 29 July 1537–1590). Don Pedro was also Viceroy of Naples, (1582–1586), Ambassador in Portugal and 5th Count of Ureña.

The fortunes of the town of Osuna started to rise in the mid-15th century. At that time Osuna was ruled by Pedro Girón, the younger brother of Juan Pacheco. His son Alfonso Téllez-Girón de las Casas was elevated to Count of Ureña in 1464 by King Enrique IV of Castile. The dynasty’s influence increased, obtaining the title of duke of Osuna in 1562. Osuna became the Andalusian capital of the domains of the Téllez-Girón family, who carried the ducal title.

Some of the most notable members of the House of Osuna were Don Pedro Téllez-Girón, 3rd Duke of Osuna, who was a general and viceroy of Naples. He became known to history as the "Great Duke of Osuna".

Another celebrated member was Don Pedro Téllez-Girón, 9th Duke of Osuna and his wife Doña María Josefa Pimentel, 12th Countess-Duchess of Benavente, who were some of the most prominent patrons to the painter Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes.