Jean Curtius

Jean Curtius, also known as Jean De Corte was a 17th century example of an international merchant and manufacturer who created a multinational business empire.

Born in Liège, Belgium which was part of the Spanish Empire at the time, Jean Curtius is credited with the founding of main iron-works and gunpowder production of the region. His business efficiency drew the attention of the Spanish king Felipe II who gave him a post of royal treasurer and general commissioner. In 1617 Curtius had sent his engineers to establish the iron-works in northern Spain, in the province of Santander which became a major military arsenal during the 1630's and 1640's.

During his lifetime Curtius used a part of his wealth to bestow his hometown with several public monuments which survived to the present day.