Grandeza of Mejico

The Grandeeship of Mejico (Spanish: Grandeza de Méjico) is the highest dignity of the Mejican nobility in the nobiliary hierarchy. It is situated immediately after the Duke of Tlaxcala, the Imperial Princes, and Princes of the Blood.

This dignity is granted by the Emperor. As a general principle, it is granted to the nobiliary title, although it can be granted in a personal capacity, without being attached to a title. Also, as a rule, its concession is also hereditary, although, exceptionally, it can be granted for life to a specific person. The sons of the princes of the blood of Mejico, the sons and daughters of Imperial Princes, have the consideration of Grandee, and do not inherit from their progenitors neither the title of prince nor the treatment of royal highness.

All Mejican duchies are automatically linked to a Grandeeship, but only some marquisates, counties, viscountcies, baronies and lordships have this distinction. The same person can be a Grandee of Mejico several times, since the status of Grandee is linked, with few exceptions, to a title and not to an individual. Among the Grandees with more than one title are the Duke of Otumba, the Duke of Bacalar, the Marquis of the Valley of Oajaca. The Grandeeship can sometimes be shared with the Grandeeship of other countries, such as Spain, Peru, or Argentina, for example. This is due to the close historical relationship that has existed between Mejico and other Iberoamerican nations.

The privileges of a Grandee of Mejico include precedence in public acts and ceremonies, reserved seating in prominent places, the use of specific noble insignia and emblems, privileged access to certain social and cultural circles such as the Council of State -the Mejican Privy Council-, special consideration from the Monarch, the right to not be imprisoned without a special warrant from the Emperor, possession of a diplomatic passport, and legal representation by the Permanent Deputation and Council of the Grandeeship of Mejico.

It is important to note that the status of Grandee in itself does not grant political power, although it does grant influence through privileged access to the Council of State. Continuing the deep-rooted tradition of Noblesse oblige within the Empire, the Grandees of Mejico have a responsibility to play an active role in society and contribute to the welfare of the country. The Grandees are expected to comply with a noble and exemplary code of conduct, being models of ethics, public service, and moral leadership. In addition, Grandees are encouraged to engage in philanthropic activities, act as patrons of art, science and of monasteries, support the preservation of cultural heritage, promote social development, and participate in Mejico's political and diplomatic life. Given their prominent status, the Grandees also have the opportunity to act as mediators and facilitators in internal or external conflicts and tensions.