The Duke of Castro is a title associated with the Italian House of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, which ruled over the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies until its annexation by the Kingdom of Italy in 1860. Here are key details about the title and its history:
- Origin: The title "Duke of Castro" was created in 1790 by King Ferdinand IV of Naples, who was later known as Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies, for his son Prince Carlo. It was a non-reigning title, meaning it did not confer any sovereignty over a specific territory but was rather a princely honor.
- Lineage: The title has been passed down through the House of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, often going to junior members of the family. The current claimant to the title is Prince Carlo, Duke of Castro, who was born in 1963.
- Historical Context: After the fall of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, the Bourbon-Two Sicilies family went into exile. The title of Duke of Castro became significant in the context of dynastic claims to the now-defunct throne of the Two Sicilies. There has been a historical dispute between two branches of the family over the rightful claim to the headship of the house, with one branch supporting the Duke of Castro and the other the Duke of Noto.
- Current Claimant: Prince Carlo, Duke of Castro, married Camilla Crociani in 1998, and they have two daughters, Princess Maria Carolina and Princess Maria Chiara. Prince Carlo is involved in various cultural and humanitarian initiatives, often representing the family's interests.
- Role and Activities: The Duke of Castro, while not a reigning monarch, plays a role in preserving the family's heritage, promoting cultural exchanges between Italy and other countries, and supporting causes related to the arts, culture, and humanitarian efforts.
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