Lope de Figueroa y Pérez de Barradas, one of the great military mans of the 16th century

Abstract

Although Lope de Figueroa was one of the architects of the rise and defense of the Spanish Empire under Philip II, he is also one of the great unknowns. It is only recently that his figure has begun to be better known. His life took him to travel around Europe, Asia and Africa, but he never lost his ties with Guadix, his hometown, or with his family, as shown by his will. He participated in numerous wars and in all of them he played an almost decisive role, due to his bravery, which made him one of the most famous soldiers of the 16th century.