The Missing Half of Juana la Loca’s Story—And Her Surprising Connection to Jávea

The story of Juana la Loca is one of power, betrayal, and suffering, and it extends far beyond the passionate heartbreak depicted in the film. 

While Juana la Loca the movie may have won awards for its portrayal of her early years, the true depth of her tragedy remains largely untold. 

And for those walking through the quiet streets of Jávea, admiring its medieval structures, few would suspect that the very people who built them played a pivotal role in one of Spain’s most heartbreaking royal captivities.

The 2001 Spanish historical drama Juana la Loca captivated audiences with its passionate portrayal of Queen Juana I of Castile, often remembered as “Juana la Loca” (Juana the Mad). 

The film, directed by Vicente Aranda, won numerous awards and brought to life the early, tormented years of Juana’s existence—her intense love for Philip the Handsome, the betrayals that surrounded her, and the political struggles that marked her reign. 

However, despite its dramatic success, the movie tells only half the story. It ends with Juana’s forced imprisonment, but it does not explore the long, agonizing decades that followed—a period of suffering that lasted far longer than her turbulent marriage.

For those familiar with the charming seaside village of Jávea (Xàbia), it may come as a surprise that this picturesque town has a direct connection to one of Spain’s most tragic historical figures. 

The family that controlled Jávea in the 16th century, the Sandoval family, played a central role in Juana’s captivity. In fact, Bernardo de Sandoval y Rojas and his wife, Francisca Enríquez, were among the nobles tasked with overseeing her confinement in Tordesillas by order of her son, King Carlos I (Charles V). 

These were the same nobles responsible for building two of Jávea’s most significant landmarks: the Fortress-Church of San Bartolomé and the Hospital of Santa Ana.

The political paranoia surrounding Juana led to her being kept in near total darkness, locked away while those who were meant to care for her lived in comfort.

Juana spent nearly fifty years in captivity, first under the watch of her father, Fernando the Catholic, and later under her son. But it was Francisca Enríquez, the wife of Bernardo de Sandoval y Rojas, who would be remembered as one of the cruelest figures in her life. 

Under her governance, Juana was subjected to humiliation, isolation, and even physical deprivation. Francisca not only mistreated Juana but also her daughter, Infanta Catalina, who was forced into a subordinate role, her possessions taken, her dignity eroded. 

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Award Winning Film - Juana la Loca (2001) Español - English Subtitles

Don’t miss this chance to experience the beauty of Spanish history, culture, and romance on a big screen. Historian Karla Ingleton Darocas, BA (Hons) will be on hand to give insights and answer any questions!

When - Friday, March 28, 2025

Time - 5pm - 7pm

Location - Benitachell Properties (Boardroom) opposite Sabadell Bank

Fee: Donation 5 euros

BOOKING FORM - Click Here