Introduction
The House of Habsburg is one of Spain's most prominent noble families, with a rich and complex history spanning more than four centuries. Founded in the 16th century, it has played a fundamental role in Spain's political, cultural, and social history.
Origins and Foundation
The House of Habsburg has its origins in Switzerland in the 10th century, but reached its maximum power when Maximilian I married his son Philip the Handsome to Joanna of Castile. Their son, Charles V, inherited an empire where the sun never set.
Historical Development
The Habsburgs ruled Spain from 1516 to 1700, a period known as the House of Austria in Spain. Charles V, Philip II, Philip III, Philip IV and Charles II were the five Habsburg kings of Spain. During this period, Spain was the dominant power in Europe.
Heritage and Legacy
The House of Habsburg left an immense architectural and cultural legacy: El Escorial, built by Philip II; Velázquez's art; the literature of the Golden Age; and an empire spanning continents. Their cultural legacy lives on in museums, palaces and literature.
Conclusion
The House of Habsburg was one of the most influential dynasties in European history. Although their political dominance ended with the death of Charles II without heirs, their cultural and architectural legacy endures to this day.