The Wedding Processions of the Dukes of Braganza (1633) and Medina Sidonia (1640): Power and Fiesta in Portugal and Spain

This article explores the political meanings of the symbolic languages of the nobility of the Hispanic Monarchy. Specifically, it analyzes the ceremonies and festivities organized by two prominent dukes —Medina Sidonia in Andalusia and Braganza in Portugal — on the occasion of their weddings in 1633 and 1640, respectively. In both cases, those noblemen organized a grand procession to collect the two brides. The symbolic language of power they displayed in that occasion – language that was strictly seigneurial – is analyzed in this article mainly from a political point of view, taking into account the rebellions that both dukes planed in 1640 (Braganza) and 1641 (Medina Sidonia). Through that language, these two seigneurial houses laid claim to their power and made clear their conception of the place they occupied within a political order they were, however, going to challenge soon