In the early 16th century, Bilbao was experiencing significant population growth and urban challenges. The population had reached approximately 5,000 inhabitants, leading to frequent occurrences of violence and public disturbances.
Arms Ban Implemented in Bilbao Villa
The local authorities faced escalating incidents, often related to alcohol consumption and gambling. These violent episodes were exacerbated when individuals were armed. In August 1500, at the behest of the Bilbao council, the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, ordered the enforcement of a pre-existing ordinance prohibiting weapons in the villa.
Historical Background of the Arms Ban
The initial request came from Juan Martines de Mondragón, a representative of Bilbao. He informed the monarchs that carrying weapons led to disturbances among residents and visitors. Consequently, the Catholic Monarchs mandated that only authorized officials could possess arms within the city, stating:
- No one was allowed to carry weapons unless authorized by local authorities.
- Violators faced penalties, including fines of 10,000 maravedís.
This regulation aimed to reduce fatalities and violence resulting from armed confrontations. Notably, the same monarchs had previously encouraged all subjects to carry weapons for self-defense, which contributed to the dangerous environment.
Subsequent Efforts to Enforce the Arms Ban
On April 18, 1509, the issue resurfaced during a city council meeting. Juan Sánchez de Larrabeçua, the town’s syndico, raised concerns that residents, both locals and outsiders, were openly carrying weapons, despite the city enjoying a period of peace. He urged the alcalde, Alonso de Balnas, to enforce the prohibition strictly.
Despite these pleas for action, compliance remained elusive. The town relied on local leaders and nighttime patrols for maintaining order, but these measures proved ineffective against armed residents. In February 1517, under similar requests from the council, Queen Juana and her son, Charles I, reaffirmed the prohibition against unauthorized weaponry.
The Ineffectiveness of the Prohibition
The royal decree reiterated the dangers posed by unlicensed weapons in the city. Officials were instructed to take necessary actions to maintain public peace, yet the ban was often disregarded. A weapon registry conducted in 1525 revealed a concerning array of arms among the populace, indicating a deep-seated culture of carrying weapons. The inventory listed:
- 237 porqueras (short polearms)
- 132 ginetas (curved swords)
- 92 arquebuses
- 84 crossbows
- 52 swords and bucklers
- 31 halberds
- 17 montantes (long swords)
- 11 partisans (long lances)
These statistics highlight the ongoing challenges that local governance faced in curbing violence and ensuring public safety in early modern Bilbao.
