Spain is preparing to celebrate the centennial of one of its most iconic figures—María del Rosario Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, better known as the Duchess of Alba. The large-scale festivities, set for March 28, are spearheaded by her son, Cayetano Martínez de Irujo, the Duke of Arjon. He aims to pay tribute to his mother, whose ashes rest in her beloved church, the Brotherhood of Gypsies in Seville—where just a year ago, he himself married Bárbara Mirjan.
Grand Celebration for the ‘Duchess of the People’
The program promises a rich and diverse lineup, reflecting the many facets of the Duchess herself. Plans include exhibitions, conferences, and spectacular performances. Flamenco—the great passion of her life—will be given special prominence, with an entire weekend devoted to it at Seville’s famed Maestranza Theater. Journalists Susanna Griso and María Casado have been invited to lead discussions on the aristocrat’s life and legacy. The centenary will also see the release of a book and the premiere of a documentary series titled ‘Cayetana: Duchess of the People.’ The Duke of Arjon emphasized that his mother deserves a heartfelt, genuine tribute, and he is determined to make the event accessible not just to the elite, but also to ordinary people, to whom she was always close.
Reconciliation in the House of Alba and the Guest List
The significance of the upcoming event is heightened by the recent reconciliation within the Alba family. After many years of discord, Cayetano has mended relations with his older brother, the head of the house, and his sister Eugenia. This renewed family harmony creates a positive atmosphere for collectively honoring their mother’s memory. Cayetano expressed hope that all his siblings—Carlos, Alfonso, Jacobo, Fernando, and Eugenia—will join the celebration. He stated that he will invite everyone, and anyone’s absence will be their own decision. The list of distinguished guests includes not only family members such as the Duchess’s widower Alfonso Díez, but also prominent figures from politics, culture, and society. Former Prime Minister Felipe González, the head of Andalusia Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla, and close friends of the Duchess like matador Curro Romero and Carmen Tello are expected to attend. There are even rumors of a possible visit by King Felipe and Queen Letizia.
Complicated relationships and legacy
Cayetano’s journey toward a deep understanding and acceptance of his mother was not easy. In his memoir “From Cayetana to Cayetano,” he candidly wrote about the traumas of his youth, the emotional distance, and the sense of abandonment he felt after his father’s death, when his mother was entirely consumed by her duties. He recalled life behind palace walls as one of isolation, devoid of love and support. However, over the years, their relationship transformed. A shared passion for equestrian sports brought them closer, and the Duchess, recognizing her son as loyal and trustworthy, entrusted him with managing part of the family’s assets. Today, Cayetano speaks warmly of his mother, regarding it both as his duty and privilege to keep her memory alive—a historical figure who left a unique human legacy.
