The last alguacil major of the Inquisition in Basin. Santiago Antelo Coronel

Abstract

Within the bureaucratic apparatus of the Inquisition, there were charges, which together with the core of the organization, such as inquisitors, notaries, secretaries, etc., were highly sought in their applications. These charges, which in practice was less representative, had more honorary than practical in performing effective services to the Holy Ofice. Among these charges, appears the figure of Constable, often linked to that of the Relatives of the Inquisition itself. These figures were requested, more privileges incident to the office, which wishes to pursue an occupation because generally, were not assigned any remuneration. Often this situation linkage between the Inquisition and these figures with the passage of time, the purpose of those who held, was to get others, fee, or be supernumerary secretary. In short, the idea we have of the figure of Constable, is to be a figurehead who holds an honorary position to distinguished persons, although in practice and in accordance with the instructions of the Inquisition, not configured in such capacity.