Felipe IV and Olivares: the favorite who governed Spain for 22 years.

Dive into the fascinating history of **Philip IV** and his powerful favorite, **Olivares**, who ruled Spain for 22 years, from 1621 to 1643. This period, marked by imperial greatness and imminent decline, unveils a web of political intrigue and constant struggles between splendor and ruin. Philip IV, who ascended to the throne at the age of 16, found himself at the pinnacle of power, but his reign was riddled with challenges that tested the stability of the Spanish Empire. Olivares, as count-duke and chief advisor, played a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom, implementing bold reforms aimed at revitalizing the economy and strengthening Spanish dominance in Europe. However, his ambition and internal tensions led to a tragic outcome. Discover the details of this complex relationship between Philip IV and Olivares, and how their legacy continues to resonate in the history of Spain. Don't miss this intriguing narrative that combines power, ambition, and the struggle for the survival of an empire!

November 29, 2025

historiahabsburgodinastíafelipe ivolivaresvalidoconde-duquereinado
```html

Philip IV and Olivares: The Favorite Who Ruled Spain for 22 Years

The history of the House of Habsburg is filled with episodes of greatness and decline, but few are as fascinating and tragic as the reign of Philip IV and his relationship with the Count-Duke of Olivares, his favorite. The union of these two figures marked a period that extended from 1621 to 1643, a time when Spain was at the height of its imperial power but also on the brink of ruin. In this article, we will explore the intricate details of their government, filled with political intrigue, wars, and a constant struggle between splendor and collapse.

The Greatness of Philip IV: A King at the Pinnacle of Power

Philip IV, born in 1605, ascended to the throne in 1621 at the age of 16. His reign began during a time of great power for Spain, which dominated vast territories in Europe, America, and Asia. The House of Habsburg, to which he belonged, had consolidated its political and economic influence through marital strategies and conquests. However, the figure of Philip IV is complex; he is often described as a king more interested in cultural and artistic life than in state affairs, which led him to rely on his favorite, the Count-Duke of Olivares.

Olivares: The Favorite and His Ambitious Plans

Gaspar de Guzmán y Pimentel, Count-Duke of Olivares, became Philip IV's favorite in 1621 and soon became indispensable. His ambition was to transform Spain into a great power through economic and military reforms. In 1624, Olivares presented his famous "union plan," which aimed to consolidate the various peninsular kingdoms under a centralized administration, generating both hopes and criticisms. Chroniclers of the time, such as the famous esc ```