Mayordomo mayor del Rey

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Mayordomo mayor del Rey (or High Steward to the King) was a title held in the former Kingdoms of León and Castile. This position was always held by members of the high nobility[1] or even royalty. With the accession of Charles V to the throne in 1516, it was replaced by the title of Mayordomo mayor of the King of Spain (High Steward to the King of Spain).

Functions

The Mayordomo mayor del Rey was :

  • Head of the Royal Household, not only honorarily but also effectively.[2]
  • In charge of court ceremonies and palace etiquette.
  • Administrator of the royal patrimony[1], although this function gradually lost importance over the centuries in favor of other minor court officials.

Requirements for holding the office

The requirements for holding the office of Mayordomo mayor del Rey and its functions are listed in Part II, Title IX, Law XVII of the Siete Partidas:[3] [4]

  • Be of good lineage, as this, according to the mentality of the time, would encourage one to do good.
  • Be knowledgeable about the King's revenues and rights in order to manage and increase those revenues.
  • Be able to keep the accounts of the Royal Household in order to report to the King on the state of the accounts.
  • Be loyal to the King in order to gain the friendship of his subjects, since everything concerning the Royal Household fell under his jurisdiction.

Mayordomo Mayor of the King of León (1156-1230)

Mayordomo Mayor of the King of Castile, and from 1230 also of the King of León

References

Sources

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