A union that surprised Spain
On March 16, 1978, the Duchess of Alba, Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, married Jesús Aguirre in a ceremony that, despite its discretion, captivated the attention of Spanish society. The celebration, held in the chapel of the Palau de Llíria, became a prominent event in the history of one of the country’s most emblematic families.
The mystery of the royal absence
One of the most debated issues was the absence of Queen Sofia. This miss led to various speculations and kept the curiosity surrounding the marriage alive. The Spanish royalty, with its rigid rules of protocol, could not participate in this second union, leaving Queen Sofia without the option of attending.
A quick and amazing promise
The love story between Cayetana and Jesus developed quickly. Just four months after meeting, the couple announced their engagement, a fact that left everyone shocked. Jesús Aguirre, who had left the priesthood in 1969, had found Cayetana, one of the most influential women in Europe, an unexpected companion.
A royal reception that set the precedent
The day before the ceremony, the couple was received by the kings at the Palau de la Zarzuela, a protocol act that evidenced the cordial relationship between the duchess and the Royal House. This visit was a clear indication of their connection, despite the Queen’s inevitable absence the next day.
A marriage marked by adversity
Over the years, the relationship between Cayetana and Jesus began to show signs of tension. As the 1990s wore on, Jesus faced a long battle with depression, which contributed to his emotional detachment. Thus, the couple was forced to live in different cities: Cayetana in Seville and Jesús in Madrid.
The tragic loss
Jesus’ life came to a tragic end on February 11, 2001, when he died in Madrid of a pulmonary embolism. In his last moments, he was accompanied only by his butler, as the distance that had grown between him and Cayetana became evident. The death of Jesus deeply affected the duchess, who, despite the difficulties of her marriage, felt a great loss.
A legacy of love and memory
Jesús Aguirre was buried in the family pantheon of the Dukes of Alba, an act that, despite its discretion, reflected the importance it had had in Cayetana’s life. His death marked the end of a significant period for the Duchess of Alba, who, despite her fortitude, could not help but feel the weight of the loss.
