The Bucarelli family moved to Seville, drawn by trade with the New World, as Seville was home to the Casa de Contratación (House of Trade), which held a monopoly on trade with the Americas. Along with other families, they were among the major foreign shippers residing in Seville. Their cargo included spices such as cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, and cacao.

Over generations, many members of the family rose to prominence and achieved great renown, particularly in the military, political, and religious spheres.