What nobody told you about Philip IV and Olivares: the favorite who ruled Spain for 22 years.

Discover the hidden secrets of Spain during the reign of Philip IV and his intriguing favorite, the Count-Duke of Olivares, who ruled for 22 years in an era of greatness and decline. From his ascension to the throne at the age of 16 to the political turmoil that marked his reign, this article reveals how Olivares, with his unchecked ambitions, led the monarchy into a chasm of crisis. What mysteries lie behind the palace doors? How did Olivares's decisions affect the fate of Spain? Immerse yourself in a narrative filled with surprises and revelations that will change your perspective on this fascinating era. Don't miss the chance to understand the impact of Philip IV and his favorite on the history of Spain. Read on and be amazed by the intrigues that defined a crucial period in the Spanish monarchy!

November 30, 2025

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What No One Told You About Philip IV and Olivares: The Favorite Who Governed Spain for 22 Years

The story of Philip IV, king of Spain from 1621 to 1665, is one of grandeur and decay, power and ruin, revolving around the enigmatic figure of his favorite, the Count-Duke of Olivares. This article will uncover the palace secrets and political intrigues that marked this tumultuous era, addressing Olivares's crucial role in Philip IV's government and how his boundless ambitions led the monarchy into a dark abyss of crisis. What really happened at the Spanish court during those years? Get ready for a tale filled with surprises and revelations.

The Beginnings of Philip IV: A Young King and a Divided Kingdom

Philip IV ascended to the throne at the age of 16, following the death of his father, Philip III. His reign began in a context of social discontent and political tensions, especially in the regions of Catalonia and the Netherlands, where revolts were becoming increasingly common. The House of Habsburg, which had dominated Europe, found itself at a crossroads. The grandeur of the Spanish empire was beginning to crumble, and the young king, with his fragile character, quickly found himself overwhelmed by the demands of ruling a vast empire.

The Arrival of Olivares: The Favorite Who Transformed Governance

In 1624, the Count-Duke of Olivares emerged on the scene, a figure who would quickly become the leading actor in Spanish politics. Olivares, a shrewd and ambitious nobleman, became Philip IV's favorite, assuming a power that many considered excessive for a court official. Through bold political strategies, Olivares sought to consolidate the king's power and restore the former splendor of Spain. However, his centralizing approach and fiscal reforms sparked growing discontent in the...