Juan de Ribera
Juan de Ribera was an influential Spanish churchman and royal official who served as Archbishop and Viceroy of Valencia. He is primarily remembered for his harsh stance against New Christians and his significant role in advocating for the expulsion of the Moriscos in 1609. His efforts in religious education and the founding of the College of Saint John also mark his legacy.
- Century
- 17th century
- Country Or Region
- Spain
Key Facts
- ›Born in Seville, Spain, on March 20, 1532.
- ›Appointed Bishop of Badajoz in 1562 and Archbishop of Valencia in 1568.
- ›Served as Viceroy of Valencia from 1602, holding both religious and CIVIL authority.
- ›Founded the Museum of the Patriarch (College of Saint John) for priest formation.
- ›Advocated for the expulsion of the Moriscos, believing them to be heretics and traitors.
- ›Beatified in 1796 and canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1960.
About Juan de Ribera
Juan de Ribera (1532–1611) was a prominent Spanish prelate and viceroy who significantly influenced religious and civil affairs in Valencia during the reign of Philip III of Spain. Born in Seville, he rose through the ecclesiastical ranks, eventually serving as Archbishop of Valencia.
Life and Ministry
Ribera's father was Pedro Afán de Ribera, who held the title of Viceroy of Naples and Duke of Alcala. After studying at the University of Salamanca and being ordained a priest in 1557, Ribera was appointed Bishop of Badajoz in 1562. He dedicated himself to religious education and countering Protestantism in his diocese. In 1568, he became Archbishop of Valencia. King Philip III later appointed him Viceroy of Valencia in 1602, consolidating both religious and civil authority in his hands.
Expulsion of the Moriscos
As archbishop, Ribera was deeply involved in the issue of Valencia's large Morisco population, descendants of Muslims who had converted to Christianity. He harbored strong negative views towards them, considering them heretics and traitors. Alongside the Duke of Lerma, Ribera was a key figure in persuading Philip III to enact the expulsion of the Moriscos in 1609. His initial proposals were even more severe, including the enslavement of the entire Morisco population.
Founding of the College of Saint John
In his capacity as Viceroy, Ribera founded the Museum of the Patriarch, locally known as the College of Saint John. This institution was established to train priests in accordance with the directives of the Council of Trent.
Canonization
Efforts to canonize Ribera began after his death. Despite some concerns raised about his failure to convene a provincial council as mandated by the Council of Trent and his role in the Morisco expulsion, his cause for sainthood progressed. He was beatified on September 18, 1796, and ultimately canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1960. His supporters often emphasized his adherence to other aspects of the Council of Trent and characterized the Moriscos as unreceptive to conversion.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Juan de Ribera?
Juan de Ribera was an influential figure in Spain during the reign of Philip III, serving as both Archbishop and Viceroy of Valencia. He was known for his strong religious convictions and his role in civil administration.
What is Juan de Ribera best known for?
He is largely remembered for his severe stance against the Moriscos, descendants of Muslims who had converted to Christianity, and for his active role in advocating for their expulsion from Spain in 1609. He also founded the College of Saint John for the formation of priests.
When was Juan de Ribera beatified and canonized?
Juan de Ribera was beatified on September 18, 1796. His canonization was completed in 1960 by Pope John XXIII.
What were some of Juan de Ribera's key positions?
Besides being Archbishop of Valencia, he held positions such as Viceroy of Valencia, Latin Patriarchate of Antioch, Commander in Chief, president of the Audiencia, and Chancellor of the University of Valencia.
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