The Lucena Sisters: Pioneers of Printing During the Spanish Inquisition

Recent hypotheses suggest that the six Lucena sisters — Beatriz, Catalina, Guiomar, Leonor, Teresa, and Juana — may have been the world's first women to print books, potentially including the iconic 'La Celestina.' According to U.S. Hispanist Michael Gerli, they operated a printing press in La Puebla de Montalbán during the late 15th century, a time when their family faced persecution from the Spanish Inquisition after being labeled marranas, or converted Jews. Documentation from the Holy Office indicates that Teresa and Catalina confessed to participating in printing Hebrew texts, casting new light on their historical significance.

Gerli's theory posits that they could be responsible for the first edition of 'La Celestina,' which remains a cornerstone of Spanish literature. The origins of this work have historically been attributed to Fernando de Rojas. Contemporary scholars, including historian Javier Castaño, argue the complexities surrounding authorship and printing practices during this period warrant further exploration. As debates continue, the Lucena sisters’ contributions, regardless of their association with 'La Celestina,' highlight their vital role in the history of book printing in Spain.