Discover Philip IV and the royal mistresses: the scandals of the Habsburg court.

Discover the most fascinating scandals of the Court of the Habsburgs during the reign of **Philip IV** (1621-1665), a period marked by opulence and decadence. As the Spanish Empire reached new frontiers, its king was engulfed in a sea of intrigues and **lovers** that defied the norms of royalty. This article reveals the hidden secrets of the court, where love and ambition clashed in a dangerous dance. From the rumors circulating among the nobles to the political crises threatening the stability of the empire, every corner of the court was steeped in tension and passion. If you are passionate about the history of royal scandals and the complexities of court life, don’t miss our in-depth exploration of Philip IV and his lovers. Click to discover more about this intriguing chapter of Spanish history!

November 30, 2025

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Philip IV: The Royal Lovers and the Scandals of the Habsburg Court

In the splendor of the Spanish court, the reign of Philip IV (1621-1665) stands out as a period of intrigue, forbidden passions, and scandals that shook the society of its time. As the Spanish Empire expanded, the king became immersed in a private life filled with secrets and lovers. This article reveals the dark corners of the court, where rumors and intrigues were as common as diplomacy and power politics.

The Reign of Philip IV: Grandeur in Decay

Philip IV ascended to the throne at a time of great prominence for the House of Habsburg, but his reign would soon be marked by a series of crises that would test the stability of his empire. With the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) draining the kingdom's coffers and colonial aspirations in America, the court became a hotbed of tensions. Nobles and courtiers, eager to regain power, sought to manipulate the course of Spanish politics through the king's personal scandals.

Philip IV's Lovers: Between Love and Power

The figure of Philip IV is remembered not only for his state decisions but also for his extramarital relationships that fueled court gossip. One of the most notorious names is María de Ávila, known as the Countess of Chinchón. This beautiful lady, who managed to capture the king's attention, was one of his most famous lovers. According to the chronicler of the time, Antonio Pérez, their relationship became a scandal that resonated throughout Europe, and her influence over Philip IV became so palpable that she was even considered a potential consort.

But she was not the only one. The Princess of Éboli, whose real name was Ana de Mendoza, was also a court figure of intrigue...