Henry III of Nassau-Breda (d. 1538)

Count Henry III of Nassau-Dillenburg-Dietz, born on January 12, 1483, in Siegen, a significant town within the County of Nassau-Siegen, was a distinguished noble of the powerful House of Nassau. His life spanned a period of profound change in European history. He passed away in Breda, a city inextricably linked to his family's legacy, on September 14, 1538.

As a leading figure in the Low Countries, Henry III held extensive titles, including Lord (and from 1530, Baron) of Breda, a strategically vital city in the Duchy of Brabant that became a principal seat of the Nassau family in the Low Countries. He also held the lordships of the Lek, Dietz, Vianden, and various others, underscoring his vast territorial holdings and feudal authority.

Family Lineage and Connection to William the Silent

Henry III was the eldest son of Count John V of Nassau-Dillenburg (1455–1516) and Elisabeth of Hesse-Marburg (1466–1523), a lineage that connected him to prominent German princely houses. His younger brother, William I, Count of Nassau-Dillenburg (1487–1559), would become the father of the renowned William the Silent (Willem van Oranje), the central figure in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule and the de facto founder of the Dutch state. Henry III's close relationship with his brother and his nephew placed him at the heart of the emerging political landscape that would define the Netherlands for centuries.

Political and Military Career

A key figure in the Habsburg Low Countries, Henry III rose to become one of Emperor Charles V's most trusted advisors and military commanders. He served as Stadtholder (governor) of major provinces, demonstrating his significant administrative capabilities and the emperor's trust in him. His appointments included:

• Stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, and Friesland (1515-1521)
• Stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, Friesland, Utrecht, and Overijssel (1521-1530)
• Stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, Utrecht, and Friesland (1530-1538)

His appointment as a Knight of the prestigious Order of the Golden Fleece in 1505 further solidified his standing among Europe's elite. Henry III's influence extended to military campaigns, diplomacy, and the administration of vast territories, contributing significantly to the consolidation of Habsburg power in the region.

Patronage of Arts and Legacy

Beyond his political and military roles, Henry III was a notable patron of the arts and culture. He commissioned the significant transformation and modernization of the Kasteel van Breda (Breda Castle), turning it from a medieval fortress into a magnificent Renaissance palace, a project continued by his third wife, Mencia de Mendoza. His personal art collection was renowned, featuring works by master painters such as Hieronymus Bosch and Jan Gossaert, reflecting his appreciation for the Northern Renaissance.

Henry III had three marriages:

• Françoise Louise of Savoy (m. 1503, died 1511)
• Claudia of Chalon (m. 1515, died 1521)
• Mencia de Mendoza (m. 1524, died 1554)

His third marriage to Mencia de Mendoza, a wealthy and cultured Spanish noblewoman, further enriched the court at Breda, making it a hub of intellectual and artistic activity. Henry III left no legitimate surviving children from his first two marriages. His only son, René of Chalon (born from his second marriage to Claudia of Chalon-Arlay), would inherit the Principality of Orange upon the death of his maternal uncle, Philibert of Chalon, and thus became René of Nassau-Orange. Upon René's death without legitimate issue in 1544, the Principality of Orange passed to William the Silent, connecting the Nassaus of Dillenburg directly to the principality that would give the Dutch royal family its name.

Frequently Asked Questions about Count Henry III of Nassau-Dillenburg-Dietz

Who was Count Henry III of Nassau-Dillenburg-Dietz?

He was a prominent count of the House of Nassau, born in 1483, who served as a key advisor and Stadtholder (governor) for Emperor Charles V in the Low Countries until his death in 1538.

What was his connection to William the Silent?

Henry III was the elder brother of William I, Count of Nassau-Dillenburg, who was the father of William the Silent. This made Henry III William the Silent's uncle.

What were his main titles and significant territories?

He was primarily known as the Lord (and later Baron) of Breda, a crucial strategic city and the main seat of the Nassau family in the Low Countries. He also held lordships over the Lek, Dietz, and others.

What was his role in the Habsburg Empire?

Henry III was a highly trusted and influential figure in the court of Emperor Charles V. He served multiple terms as Stadtholder of key provinces such as Holland, Zeeland, Friesland, Utrecht, and Overijssel, overseeing administration and military affairs.

Did Henry III have any significant cultural contributions?

Yes, he was a notable patron of the arts. He initiated the transformation of the Kasteel van Breda into a Renaissance palace and owned a significant art collection that included works by masters like Hieronymus Bosch and Jan Gossaert.