What nobody told you about Philip IV and the royal mistresses: the scandals of the Habsburg court.

Discover the best-kept secrets of the court of Philip IV, King of Spain from 1621 to 1665, a period marked by both splendor and decline. This article unveils the fascinating history of Philip IV's lovers, who were not only his personal passions but also key players in a power game that defined a tumultuous era. In the Habsburg court, love scandals were more than mere rumors; they were reflections of a monarch struggling to maintain the stability of an empire in crisis. With intrigues that intertwine desire and politics, Philip IV's love life is a testament to his humanity and weaknesses. Do you dare to delve into the dark secrets of this king and his lovers? Don’t miss this revealing exploration of the court's scandals and their impact on history. Read more and uncover the truth behind the royal facade!

November 30, 2025

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What Nobody Told You About Philip IV and His Royal Mistresses: The Scandals of the Habsburg Court

The court of Philip IV, King of Spain from 1621 to 1665, was a stage of grandeur and decay where scandals intertwined with luxurious garments and dark secrets. This monarch, known for his passion for art and culture, was also the protagonist of a series of love intrigues that marked his reign. Philip IV's mistresses not only reflected his personal weaknesses but also opened a window into the tumultuous politics of the time, an era where power and desire coexisted in a dangerous dance.

The King and His Mistresses: A Game of Power

At the Habsburg court, scandals were not mere gossip; they were a reflection of absolute power and human weakness. Philip IV, a king striving to maintain the stability of a declining empire, found in his mistresses an escape from his responsibilities. His first acknowledged mistress was Maria de Ágreda, a mystic who held great influence in his life, although their connection was more spiritual than physical. Historical documents from the time, such as Philip IV's letters, suggest that his interest in Maria went beyond the carnal; he sought guidance in her fervent faith. However, the true love story unfolded with Ana de Austria, his cousin and first wife, who became the mother of his children but also the figure that symbolized his decline.

The Court Scandals: Intrigues and Rivalries

The court of Philip IV was a hotbed of intrigues and rivalries, where the mistresses were both a symbol of power and a threat to his reign. The most scandalous figure was undoubtedly María Bárbola, one of those painted by the famous artist Diego Velázquez. It is said that her relationship with the king was not just a romance but also a... ```