[3] In 1492, the 2nd Duke of Alba de Tormes signed the capitulation of the city of Granada.

During the 16th century, Fernando Álvarez de Toledo, 3rd Duke of Alba, was given the title of governor general of the Spanish Netherlands.

Through her granddaughter Marie de' Medici, Queen of France, she became the ancestor of many crowned heads and heirs apparent of Europe.

[2] His father was Luis Martínez de Irujo [es], a younger son of the 9th Duke of Sotomayor.

The family owns a significant collection of art, furniture and historic documents, mainly at the Liria Palace in Madrid.