Alessandro Orsini (cardinal)

Alessandro Orsini (born 1534, died 1589) was an Italian Roman Catholic cardinal. He was a member of the prominent Orsini family, which had strong ties to the papacy and held significant power in the Papal States.

Orsini was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Sixtus V in 1587, being made Cardinal-Deacon of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. His appointment reflected the Orsini family's continuing influence within the Church. He served as a cardinal for only a short time, dying two years later.

While his cardinalate was brief, Alessandro Orsini's position highlights the political and familial dynamics prevalent in the Renaissance and early modern Church. The appointment of members of powerful families like the Orsini was a common practice, solidifying alliances and ensuring the loyalty of influential nobles to the papacy. Further research into primary sources would be necessary to fully detail his specific activities and impact during his time as cardinal.