The death of Hernán Cortés’s wife Catalina Suárez had produced a scandal and a major investigation, but weathering that, Cortés is now free to marry someone of high status more appropriate to his wealth and power.

In 1529 he is accorded the noble designation of don, but more importantly is given the noble title of Marquis of the Valley of Oaxaca and marries the Spanish noblewoman Doña Juana de Zúñiga.

The marriage will produce three children, including another son, who is also named Martín.

As the first-born legitimate son, Don Martín Cortés y Zúñiga will become Cortés's heir and succeed his father as holder of the title and estate of the Marquisate of the Valley of Oaxaca.

Cortés's legitimate daughters will be known as Doña Maria, Doña Catalina, and Doña Juana.