In the vast and varied landscape of Spain's history, the rural properties of the nobility, particularly those belonging to the dukes, have played a crucial role in the economic, social, and cultural development of the country. Among these properties, estates and dehesas stand out not only for their size and economic importance but also for their influence in shaping the agrarian and livestock environment that still endures today.
Origins and Evolution of Ducal Rural Properties
The figure of the duke in the Spanish nobility hierarchy solidified over the centuries, especially from the Renaissance onwards and during the rise of the monarchy in the Early Modern period. Dukes were not only large landowners but also representatives of royal power in their territories. Their rural properties were considered symbols of status and wealth, and their management impacted the daily life of the local population.
Starting in the 15th century, with the Reconquista, noble titles were granted as a reward for services rendered to the Crown. These titles were often accompanied by the granting of lands, which varied in type and extent. Among them, estates, which could be agricultural or livestock-based, and dehesas, characteristic of the Spanish landscape, stood out for their ability to generate income through agriculture and livestock farming.
The Estates: Space for Cultivation and Production
Historically, estates have been the driving force of the rural economy in Spain. These properties, primarily dedicated to agriculture, included arable lands for cereals, olive groves, vineyards, and horticultural crops, among others. The importance of estates became evident with the expansion of agriculture in the 18th century when new techniques and crops were introduced, which allowed for greater productivity.