Leca of Cătun
Leca or Lecca of Cătun, also known as Leca of Leurdeni, Leca Rudeanu, Comisul Leca, or Postelnico Leka (Hungarian: Kommis Leká;? – February or March 1616), was a Wallachian political figure, prominent under Princes Michael the Brave, Radu Șerban, and Radu Mihnea. Originally a Comis, his first major assignments came during Prince Michael's conquest of Transylvania, when he also submitted to, and fought for, the Holy Roman Empire. Leca was a commander of Wallachian troops in Michael's battles at Mirăslău (1600) and Guruslău (1601), returning to Wallachia after Michael's assassination.
Leca of Cătun | |
|---|---|
| Postelnic of Wallachia | |
| In office August 16, 1602 – December 10, 1610 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | unknown date Argeș County? |
| Died | February or March 1616 |
| Spouse | Grăjdana Băleanu |
| Relations | Udrea Băleanu (brother-in-law) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Wallachia Holy Roman Empire |
| Years of service | 1599–1602 1614–1616 |
| Rank | Spatharios (1614–1616) |
| Commands | Wallachian military forces |
| Battles/wars | Long Turkish War |
Leca was a Postelnic and diplomat during Prince Radu Șerban's eight-year reign, following the court into its exile to Moldavia (1610–1612). Like the Prince, he was still aligned with the pro-imperial party, hoping to obtain Habsburg support for a return to power. He switched his allegiance toward Radu Mihnea, and served another two years (1614–1616) as Wallachia's Spatharios. His career and life were ended by accusations of treachery, with the Prince also confiscating his estate. Leca's lineage was virtually extinguished by his execution.