Kingdom of Aragon
The Kingdom of Aragon was a medieval and early modern Kingdom in northeastern Spain. It emerged in the late 9th century when a Frankish count named Wilfred the Hairy was given control over the County of Aragon by the Carolingian Empire. Over time, this county evolved into a full-fledged kingdom through strategic marriages, conquests, and political maneuvers.
Foundation and Expansion
Political Structure and Influence
- Governance: The Kingdom of Aragon was characterized by a relatively decentralized feudal system. The Corts, an assembly of the nobility, clergy, and townspeople, played a significant role in governance, particularly in fiscal matters and legislation.
- Legal System: Aragon had its own legal tradition known as Fueros, which were local laws and customs that varied by region but provided a framework for rights and privileges.
- Mediterranean Expansion: Under the Crown of Aragon, the kingdom became a maritime power, controlling parts of the Kingdom of Sicily, Kingdom of Naples, and even extending influence into Greece and Sardinia.
Cultural and Economic Aspects
- Language: The primary language was Aragonese, although Catalan also became influential, especially after the union with Catalonia.
- Trade: Aragon's strategic location fostered trade, with major ports like Barcelona and Valencia serving as hubs for commerce in the Mediterranean.
- Art and Architecture: The Kingdom of Aragon was a center for Gothic architecture, with notable examples like the Cathedral of the Savior of Zaragoza.
Decline and Integration into Spain
Legacy
The Kingdom of Aragon left a lasting legacy in the form of its laws, culture, and the political structures it developed, which influenced the formation of Spain. Its maritime and trade policies also contributed to the economic prosperity of the region during its peak.
References
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