Albuquerque, New Mexico, is named after Francisco Fernández de la Cueva, 10th duke of Alburquerque.
The Origin of Albuquerque's Name
The city of Albuquerque has a rich historical foundation tied to Spanish colonial expansion. Its name directly honors a prominent figure from that era.
The Namesake
Francisco Fernández de la Cueva held the esteemed title of 10th duke of Alburquerque. He served as a Viceroy, a high-ranking official who acted as a direct representative of the Spanish king in the colonies. The duke's title, "Alburquerque," itself derived from a town located in Spain.
Founding and Evolution of the Name
- Founding: The outpost was established in 1706 as La Villa de Alburquerque by Francisco Cuervo y Valdés. At the time, Cuervo y Valdés was the governor of the provincial kingdom of Santa Fe de Nuevo México.
- Initial Spelling: The city was originally spelled "Alburquerque," mirroring the duke's title and the Spanish town it originated from.
- Modern Spelling: Over time, the first 'r' in "Alburquerque" was dropped, leading to the familiar modern spelling of "Albuquerque" that is used today for the city in New Mexico.
The naming of Albuquerque is a testament to the Spanish colonial influence in the region, reflecting the practice of honoring significant figures and places from the homeland in new settlements.
