From the beginning, the Duke of Alba was not just a noble caught up in the intrigues of the Spanish court; he was a true traveler who embarked on multiple expeditions across the European continent. His life was characterized by a desire to know not only the courts of Europe but also its people and customs. This quest for knowledge led him to explore places that, in his time, were at the pinnacle of culture and politics.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the traveling duke's adventures was his time in France. At a moment when tensions between Spain and France were palpable, the duke skillfully navigated these turbulent waters with a mix of diplomacy and cunning. During his stay at the court of Louis XIV, he became a privileged observer of the opulence of the Palace of Versailles, where the rules of etiquette and protocol reached almost absurd levels. It is said that on one occasion, the duke witnessed an elaborate banquet where the delicacies were so extraordinary that he could not help but admire the culinary skills of the chefs. However, what surprised him the most was the way the attendees maintained their roles, despite enjoying a feast, which led him to reflect on the nature of power and image at court.
Nevertheless, his life was not without its misadventures. On one occasion, while he was in Paris, the duke fell victim to a theft. In an attempt to experience the nightlife of the city, he...