The obsession of Philip II with paperwork: the king who worked 16 hours a day.

Discover the fascinating life of **Philip II**, the king who dedicated up to **16 hours a day** to **bureaucracy** and work in an empire where the sun never set. This article reveals how his insatiable obsession with power and administration not only defined his reign in the 16th century but also foreshadowed the decline of his vast Spanish empire. Through meticulous government management, Philip II faced intrigues and challenges that marked his monarchy. Immerse yourself in the history of a monarch whose dedication to work became a symbol of greatness and, at the same time, fragility. What secrets and lessons lie behind his endless hours at court? Don’t miss the opportunity to understand how **bureaucracy** and **work** shaped the destiny of one of history's most iconic kings. Read on to discover more!

November 29, 2025

historiahabsburgodinastíafelipe iitrabajoburocraciagobiernorey

Philip II: The King Who Worked 16 Hours a Day and His Obsession with Paperwork

The figure of Philip II, the king who ruled the vast Spanish Empire during the 16th century, is marked by an insatiable obsession with work. He is often described as the monarch who dedicated up to 16 hours a day to bureaucracy and governance, an obsession that reflects not only the grandeur of his reign but also the decline that loomed over his empire. In this article, we will explore Philip II's intricate relationship with work, bureaucracy, and power, revealing the secrets and intrigues that defined his monarchy.

The Grandeur of Philip II: A King Obsessed with Power

Philip II, who ascended to the throne in 1556, inherited an empire where the sun never set. From vast colonies in the Americas to territories in Europe, his government was a labyrinth of interests and conflicts. However, his ambition knew no bounds; chroniclers of the time, such as the Spanish historian Luis de Borgia, recount how the king dedicated his time to reviewing documents, signing decrees, and maintaining correspondence with his viceroys and ambassadors. His famous habit of working tirelessly from dawn until well into the night became a topic of whispers among the nobility.

The Stress and Bureaucracy: A High Price for Power

The bureaucracy of the Spanish Empire was complex and often overwhelming. Philip II did not fully trust his advisors and, as a result, took on most of the work himself. At times, he was seen surrounded by piles of documents in his private office at the Monastery of El Escorial, where he moved in 1563. This obsession not only led him to work long hours but also had an impact on his health. As the years went by, Philip became increasingly reluctant to delegate responsibilities, leading to a...