The story of the Duchess of Alba, whose life is like a thrilling roller coaster ride, a journey most of us can only dream of sharing even a moment beyond her vast wealth, is fascinating.
Duchess of Alba Keyetana Fitz-James is known for her glamorous lifestyle, unabashed openness in any situation, youthful loveliness, and abiding love for a surgeon scalpel but there’s more to his story than these titles. Her early years were marred by tragedy when her mother died of tuberculosis in 1934, leaving her with everything and nothing at once.
Cayetan, a bright eight-year-old, suffered this tragic loss. Fortunately, he developed a strong bond with his father, who became his rock during those tumultuous times. The 1930s were a turbulent time in Spanish history, with the collapse of the monarchy and the birth of the Democratic Republic in 1931. Forced into exile, Keitana’s father sought refuge in France with Keitana
But the young Duchess-to-be was not interested in France, and when they finally moved to London, her heart was hardened. He received a stellar education there and became fluent in English, German, French, and Italian. The city also exposed him to many influential people and opened doors he could only dream of. And the icing on the cake? Queen Elizabeth herself spent time with none other than her second – the royal brush who left her mark.
In the realm of rebellion and law-breaking, Cayetana developed a kindred feeling for Princess Margaret, and their friendship blossomed. At the age of 21, she married Pedro Luis MartÃnez de Iruzo y Artacoz, in a wedding that delighted the world and reportedly created the modern-day equivalent of $10,000,000 is not a legend.
Their honeymoon in Hollywood was a star-studded affair, with Keyetana rubbing shoulders with luminaries like Bing Crosby, Walt Disney, Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich, and Marilyn Monroe She returned to Spain and with American dignitaries like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy.
Cayetana and her first husband welcomed six children into the world, but tragedy struck when he passed away when she was just 53. A few years later, she found love again in the arms of Jes Aguirre y Ortiz de Zarate, 11 years her junior and the subject of much skepticism. Despite the naysayers, Cayetana treasured the years they spent together, cherishing every moment.
Living life on her own terms, Cayetana attended countless parties and gatherings, embracing her desire for joy and seizing every opportunity to have fun.
Her second husband’s passing led many to believe she’d remain a widow, but the Duchess had other plans. She married Alfonso Diez Carabantes, a civil servant significantly younger than her, leading to public scrutiny. Even her own children urged her to reconsider, but Cayetana was resolute in her decision.
With a 25-year age gap, King Juan Carlos of Spain openly dubbed Alfonso a fortune hunter. The House of Alba even released a statement in 2008, asserting that their connection was based on friendship rather than marriage. Nevertheless, they tied the knot.
Before the wedding, Cayetana ensured her children were well provided for, and Alfonso made it clear he sought nothing from her fortune.
Their marriage appeared joyful, though Cayetana admitted it was challenging to keep up with her much younger spouse.
But the Duchess, with her unwavering spirit, proved that age is just a number in matters of the heart.
