Discover the Agony of Charles II: The Final Days of Spain's Most Ill King

The story of Charles II of Spain, known as the Bewitched King, is a tale filled with tragedy, intrigue, and decline. His reign, which lasted from 1665 to 1700, was marked by a series of personal and political disasters that culminated in his painful death, an agony that reflects the twilight of the House of Habsburg in the Iberian Peninsula. In this article, we explore the last days of Charles II, his struggle against devastating illnesses, and the grim legacy he left behind.

The Suffering of a King Marked by Illness

From his childhood, Charles II was a victim of a series of illnesses that severely affected his physical and mental health. Born in 1661, he was the son of Philip IV and Mariana of Austria, and his lineage was marked by centuries of inbreeding, resulting in a number of genetic issues. According to chroniclers of the time, his appearance was disheartening: he had a prominent jaw, mobility problems, and often struggled with episodes of epilepsy and other disorders.

In a report from 1697, the royal physician Francisco López de Mendoza documented the king's fragility and constant suffering, which generated concern at court. Despite his position, Charles II was a prisoner of his own body, which led to him being known as "the Bewitched." The grandeur of the House of Habsburg contrasted dramatically with the decline experienced by its monarch.

The Last Days of Charles II and Political Intrigue

The deterioration of Charles II's health became alarmingly evident by the end of the 17th century. In 1700, his condition became critical: he suffered from fever, extreme weight loss, and a notable inability to govern. During this crucial period, the court was immersed in political intrigue as the nobles...