In 2026, Spain will be in the spotlight with large-scale events marking the centenary of the birth of Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart. The Alba family, led by Cayetano Martínez de Irujo, is already actively preparing a series of activities to honor the memory of the legendary duchess. Plans include not only the release of a new biography, but also a range of cultural initiatives that will give the public a chance to discover the life and legacy of one of the most remarkable figures in Spanish aristocracy.
The past year has been eventful for Cayetano Martínez de Irujo. He married Bárbara Mirjan in Seville, reconciled with his brothers, but also faced serious health problems. Despite these personal challenges, he has taken charge of organizing the centennial celebrations to ensure his mother receives her rightful place in history.
Event program
The centenary of Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart will feature conferences, exhibitions, film screenings, and musical evenings. A special highlight is the biography ‘The Last Duchess: Homage to Cayetana, a Woman Beyond Her Time’, which will hit bookstore shelves in March. Members of the family, including Carlos and Fernando, the widower Alfonso Díez, and grandchildren Tana Rivera, Luis and Amina Martínez de Irujo, and Casanova, are all involved in the book. Prominent journalist and academic Luis María Ansón has also joined the project.
The organizers aim to present Cayetana not only as an aristocrat, but also as a woman who became a symbol of her era. The program will feature public lectures by prominent journalists Susanna Griso and María Casado. The topics discussed will reflect the duchess’s own interests, shedding light on her multifaceted personality.
Flamenco and a Documentary Series
Cayetana’s love for art and flamenco is celebrated in a special show, “Flamenco. Cayetana and Her Passion,” to be staged in May at the Teatro de la Maestranza. Choreographer Cecilia Gómez is preparing the production, and audiences can expect a unique blend of music, dance, and memories of the duchess.
Another key event is the premiere of the documentary series “Cayetana. A Duchess for All.” Across three episodes, viewers will see rare footage from Cayetana’s life, learn about her meetings with world leaders and celebrities, and discover how she managed to balance personal freedom with her duties as head of the House of Alba. The series will first air on regional television before becoming available on streaming platforms.
Family Unity
Cayetano Martínez de Irujo emphasizes his wish to involve all his siblings in the celebrations. For him, it is important that the memory of their mother unites the family and serves as a starting point for dialogue with the public. The anniversary events will be open not only to relatives, but also to anyone interested, as Cayetana always remained close to ordinary people.
Looking back, Cayetano does not hide the difficult moments in his life, which he described in his autobiography. However, he is now focused on showing his mother’s true self—without the stereotypes and myths that surrounded her name for years.
The Duchess’s Legacy
The centenary’s cultural program will span various cities across Spain. Exhibitions dedicated to Cayetana’s personal belongings and archives are planned, along with gatherings featuring people who knew her personally. Organizers hope these events will offer a fresh perspective on the duchess’s role in Spain’s history and explain why she became an icon for millions.
Fans will not only learn more about Cayetana’s life, but also take part in discussions about her contribution to culture and society. Interest in her personality remains strong years after her death, and the anniversary celebrations promise to be among Spain’s most significant events of 2026.
In case you didn’t know, Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, the 18th Duchess of Alba, was one of the most titled women in the world and held a unique position in Spanish society. Her eccentricity, passion for art, and openness made her a public favorite. The House of Alba is one of Europe’s oldest aristocratic dynasties, and Cayetana was famed not only for her heritage, but also for her vibrant personal life, friendships with world leaders and artists. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations.