House of Castile (Royal)

The royal House of Castile descended from Ferdinand I, first King of Castile, through the Jiménez and later Burgundy dynasties. Castile grew from a small county into the largest and most powerful kingdom in Iberia, driving the Reconquista southward and eventually absorbing León, Toledo, Córdoba, Seville, and Murcia.

Members of the House of Castile (Royal) lineage

• Fernando I de Castilla, King (1016–1065) — Fernando I was the first king of a unified Castile and León. He was a shrewd and ambitious ruler, known for expanding his territories through both military prowess and strategic marriages. His reign marked the beginning of the Castilian royal lineage that would later dominate Spain. He is remembered for his piety and the patronage of the Church.
• Alfonso VI de León y Castilla, King (1040–1109) — Alfonso VI was a prominent and notable king who is often referred to as 'the Brave'. His reign is characterized by significant military victories against the Moors and the unification of León and Castile. He is also known for his cultural patronage, fostering the arts and education. His efforts in the Reconquista earned him a legendary status among the nobility.
• Sancha de Castilla, Princess (1064–1109) — Sancha was a politically astute princess known for her influential role in the court of her father, Alfonso VI. Her marriage to Raymond of Burgundy strengthened alliances between the kingdoms and bolstered the defenses against Moorish incursions. Sancha was also a patron of religious institutions, contributing to the cultural and spiritual life of Castile.
• Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, El Cid (1043–1099) — Rodrigo, known as El Cid, was a legendary military leader and icon of Spanish history. He initially served under King Alfonso VI but later became a mercenary, fighting for both Christian and Muslim leaders. His heroism in battle and adherence to chivalric ideals made him a folk hero, and his life inspired countless tales and legends.
• Alfonso VII de León y Castilla, Emperor (1105–1157) — Alfonso VII is noted for being the first Spanish monarch to adopt the title of Emperor of all Spain. He sought to consolidate power in the face of internal and external challenges, and his reign saw the expansion of Castilian territory. He was a significant figure in the continued efforts of the Reconquista, promoting both military and cultural advancements.
• Beatriz de Castilla, Countess (1150–1185) — Beatriz was a politically influential countess whose marriage to Henry II of England strengthened ties between Castile and England. Her life was marked by her diplomatic skills and efforts to maintain peace between the warring factions of her family. She is remembered for her patronage of the arts and her role in the education of her children.
• Sanchia de Castilla, Countess (1180–1243) — Sanchia was known for her intelligence and strong-willed nature, playing a significant role in the political landscape of her time. As the wife of Hugh de Lusignan, she facilitated alliances between Castile and France. Her life was marked by controversy due to her involvement in succession disputes.
• Alfonso VIII de Castilla, King (1155–1214) — Alfonso VIII was a key figure in the Reconquista, particularly known for his decisive victory at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa. His reign saw the strengthening of the Kingdom of Castile and the establishment of its power in the Iberian Peninsula. He was a devoted patron of the Church and the arts, leaving a lasting legacy.

Castles held by the House of Castile (Royal)

• Burgos Castle — Royal Seat (884–1369)
• Almodóvar del Río Castle — Royal Residence (1240–1350)
• Peñafiel Castle — Royal Property (1400–1600)