King Felipe Is Currently The King Of Spain
I’ve always enjoyed history and wanted to learn more since we moved across here about the republic and also the royal family and the King of Spain.
King Felipe VI of Spain, with his unassuming lifestyle and commitment to his royal duties, has garnered attention for his approachable demeanor and dedication to his country. In 1977, Felipe was formally proclaimed Prince of Asturias. In 1981 Felipe was made a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece. From 1984 to 1985 he studied at a private school in Lakefield, Ontario, Canada.
In 1986, on his 18th birthday, Felipe swore allegiance to Juan Carlos and was officially named heir to the throne.
However, there is much more to explore about the King of Spain beyond his public persona. From his family life to his role in modernizing the monarchy, a deeper look into his reign reveals a multifaceted monarch managing the complexities of tradition and progress in contemporary Spain.
Felipe VI of Spain
Felipe VI, the Spanish King, and his wife Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, the Queen of Spain, have two daughters, Leonor and Sofía.
Leonor, the princess of Asturias, is the heir presumptive to the Spanish throne.
This beloved family is known for their modest lifestyle and commitment to their duties.
Queen And King Of Spain
Queen Letizia, the Queen Consort to King Felipe VI, has been a significant figure in Spain since their wedding.
The union between Queen Letizia and King Felipe VI marked a new chapter in the Spanish monarchy, with the couple embodying modernity and tradition.
Their wedding was a grand event, showcasing the royal couple’s love and commitment to their roles as the Queen and King of Spain.
Their Wedding
Their wedding on May 22nd, 2004, at the Almudena Cathedral in Madrid was marked by an unexpected downpour despite historical weather patterns in the capital of Spain.
The decision to marry on a day with no recorded rain in decades backfired as rain poured down on Felipe and Letizia’s special day.
Nevertheless, the couple’s love shone brightly amidst the unexpected weather, creating a memorable event. They have celebrated their twentieth wedding anniversary this year, 2024.
Royal Family Do Have Children
The royal couple has two daughters, Leonor and Sofía, who are the children of King Felipe VI of Spain. Leonor, Princess of Asturias, was born on October 31, 2005, making her the elder daughter and heir presumptive to the Spanish throne since her father’s ascension in 2014.
Infanta Sofía, the younger daughter, was born in 2007. When King Felipe VI was proclaimed as the monarch, Leonor assumed the title of Princess of Asturias and heir to the throne.Had they had a son born first, then he would have been Prince of Asturias, the traditional title normally held by the heir to the Spanish throne.
The Crown Prince, from his birth or from the time he acquires the claim, shall hold the title of Prince of Asturias and the other titles traditionally held by the heir to the Crown of Spain.
The King and Queen have raised their daughters in the public eye, with Leonor and Sofía often accompanying their parents to official events and engagements. As members of the Spanish royal family, Leonor and Sofía represent the future of the monarchy and are being prepared for their future roles, such as head of state, within the institution.
Their upbringing reflects a blend of tradition, duty, and modernity, as they navigate their positions within the royal household alongside their parents, King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain.
Where Does The King Of Spain Live
The King of Spain resides in the Zarzuela Palace, which is situated within the El Pardo complex, near Madrid.
This grand residence has been the official home of Spanish monarchs since 1975, offering a regal setting on the hill of Monte El Pardo.
The palace serves as a prominent royal estate where King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia have resided during their reign.
Royal Estates
The King of Spain resides in several royal estates, including the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the Royal Site of El Pardo, the Royal Site of Aranjuez, and the Royal Convent of San Pascual.
These magnificent properties aren’t only the residences of the monarch but also serve as venues for important state ceremonies and official events.
Patrimonio Nacional manages and preserves these sites, ensuring they’re open to the public and maintained for cultural and historical significance.
Royal Palace Of Madrid
Nestled in the heart of Madrid lies the regal residence of the King of Spain, the Royal Palace of Madrid.
Built on the ruins of the former Alcázar, the Palace was constructed in Baroque style under King Felipe V’s orders.
It serves as the official seat for His Majesty The King‘s high representation functions as per the Constitution.
The Palace welcomes public visits and houses significant works of art from the Royal collections.
Real Monasterio De San Lorenzo De El Escorial
Located in the heart of Spain, Real Monasterio De San Lorenzo De El Escorial is the royal estate where the King of Spain resides. Founded by King Philip II, the monumental complex showcases a blend of Italian and Flemish art.
The site includes a Palace, Convent, College, Library, Basilica, Royal Pantheon, and various gardens. Decorated with frescoes by renowned artists and featuring sculptures, paintings, and tapestries, the Monastery is a true cultural gem.
Royal Site Of El Pardo
A significant royal residence where the King of Spain resides is the El Pardo Royal Palace, situated on the El Pardo Mountain near Madrid. The palace holds historical significance, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages when Castilian Monarchs took an interest in the area.
Initially a hunting pavilion, it was later expanded and refurbished by various monarchs, including King Henry IV, Emperor Charles V, and King Charles III. The palace boasts remarkable tapestries by Goya and Bayeu, as well as frescoes by Gaspar Becerra. The Royal Site of El Pardo also encompasses the Casita del Príncipe and Quinta del Duque de Arco.
Currently, the El Pardo Mountain is home to the King and Queen of Spain at La Zarzuela Palace and the Prince and Princess of Asturias in their Pavilion.
Best For: History enthusiasts interested in exploring royal residences with rich historical significance.
Pros: – Immerse yourself in the historical legacy of Castilian Monarchs and various monarchs who expanded and refurbished the palace. – Admire remarkable tapestries by Goya and Bayeu as well as frescoes by Gaspar Becerra. – Explore the diverse architectural styles and structures within the Royal Site of El Pardo.
Cons: – Limited accessibility to certain areas of the palace or specific historical artifacts. – Crowded tour schedules may limit the time spent in each significant area. – Maintenance or restoration work may occasionally restrict access to certain parts of the palace.
Royal Site Of Aranjuez
The architects Juan Bautista de Toledo and Juan de Herrera were responsible for El Escorial and were also commissioned to construct the Palace at the Royal Site of Aranjuez by King Philip II. Located between the rivers Tajo and Jarama, the Palace was completed during King Fernando VI’s reign, with additional wings added under King Charles III.
It boasts 18th-century decorations like the Porcelain Cabinet, Hall of Mirrors, paintings, tapestries, furniture, and lamps.
Royal Convent Of San Pascual
Architect Sabatini designed the Royal Convent of San Pascual in Aranjuez between 1765 and 1770 under the orders of King Charles III, transforming it into a Franciscan convent.
Later, during Queen Isabella II’s reign, it became a convent for Conceptionist nuns.
The church, designed by Roman architect Fonton, features notable artworks such as Anton Raphael Mengs‘ painting on the high altar.
The convent remains under Royal Patronage.
Royal Site Of La Granja De San Ildefonso
Located in the Guadarrama Mountains, the Royal Site of La Granja De San Ildefonso is a historic location where the King of Spain resides.
Originally a farm owned by Hieronymite monks, King Philip V expanded the gardens and palace in 1724. The palace features paintings by notable artists and Carrara marble sculptures, while the gardens boast 18th-century landscaping and impressive fountains adorned with lead sculptures like Neptune and Apollo.
Riofrío Royal Palace
Nestled in a picturesque 625-hectare forest, the Riofrío Royal Palace is a stunning 18th-century residence where the King of Spain occasionally resides. Built by architect Santiago Bonavía, the palace features four identical pink façades surrounding a central courtyard and a grand double staircase.
Situated in a natural paradise filled with deer, this Italian-style palace offers a regal setting for the King’s occasional stays.
Royal Palace Of La Almudaina
The Royal Palace of La Almudaina, situated in the Balearic Islands, serves as the official residence for Their Majesties The King and Queen of Spain during their visits to the region.
La Almudaina, originally built over a Roman stronghold, showcases a mix of historical influences, including Arab fortress structures.
Notable features include the Chapel of the King, the Chapel of St James, and a stunning Gothic Hall adorned with Flemish and Spanish furniture.
Reales Alcázares
Their Majesties The King and Queen of Spain reside in the Reales Alcázares, an architectural masterpiece in Seville classified as World Heritage since 1988.
This royal residence is a blend of different artistic periods, showcasing King Pedro’s Mudejar Palace, the Gothic Halls of King Alfonso X, rooms of the Catholic Monarchs, and Renaissance decorations from the era of Charles V.
The High Rooms serve as the official residence when the royal couple is in Seville.
Monastery Of The Descalzas Reales
Within the Royal Estates, the Monastery of the Descalzas Reales serves as a historical gem with its origins tied to the Royal Accountant of Charles V and the founding of the Royal Patronage by his daughter Juana.
This Madrid-based monastery, formerly the Palace of the Royal Accountant, was transformed into a religious haven for the Discalced Franciscan nuns in 1557. The structure has retained its 16th-century design and many decorative elements, including exquisite tapestries crafted in Brussels from designs by Rubens.
Recognized for its artistic and historical significance, the Monastery of the Descalzas Reales was awarded the Council of Europe’s European Museum of the Year in 1987. Despite being a cloistered monastery, it offers guided tours to the public, providing a unique glimpse into its rich heritage.
Best For: History enthusiasts seeking a unique and immersive experience delving into the rich heritage of the Monastery of the Descalzas Reales.
Pros: – Impeccably preserved 16th-century structure with original decorative elements. – Extraordinary tapestries woven in Brussels based on designs by Rubens. – Recognized as the Council of Europe’s European Museum of the Year in 1987 for its artistic and historical value.
Cons: – Limited access due to being a cloistered monastery. – Guided tours may have restricted schedules. – Visitors must adhere to monastery rules and regulations during the tour.
Royal Monastery Of The Incarnation
Located within the Royal Estates, the Royal Monastery Of The Incarnation serves as the residence of the King Of Spain.
Founded in 1611 by Margaret of Austria, the Monastery was entrusted to the Augustinian Recollect nuns.
Renowned for its stunning Church and Convent, the building was reconstructed in 1767 by architect Ventura Rodríguez.
Remarkable artworks within include pieces by Lucas Jordan, Juan Van der Hamen, and Pedro de Mena.
Royal Monastery Of St Claire In Tordesillas
The Royal Monastery of St. Claire in Tordesillas is a historic site where the King of Spain resides. Founded in 1363 by Infanta Beatriz, the monastery was built over a former Mudejar Palace in Valladolid.
It later became a Convent of nuns of the Order of St Clare. The monastery features a gothic-style church added in the 15th and 16th centuries. Preserving elements of the former Mudejar Palace, the site showcases the Palace façade, the High Chapel with an octagonal ceiling crafted by Mudejar artists, and the entrance courtyard known as Compás.
Renowned for its Castilian paintings by the Berruguete School, frescoes from different eras, and unique Arab Baths considered unparalleled in Europe, the Royal Monastery of St. Claire offers a glimpse into Spain’s rich cultural heritage.
Best For: History enthusiasts and art lovers seeking a unique cultural experience in a historical setting.
Pros: – Rich collection of Castilian paintings by the Berruguete School – Preservation of significant Mudejar architecture and elements – Access to unique Arab Baths considered unparalleled in Europe
Cons: – Limited accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges – Restricted visiting hours due to the site being a functioning monastery – Potential for crowded tours during peak visitor seasons
Monastery Of Santa María La Real De Las Huelgas
King Alfonso VIII and Queen Leonor founded the Royal Monastery of Huelgas in Burgos in 1187, where the King of Spain resides.
The monastery, home to the Museum of Medieval Fabrics, holds complete medieval outfits.
Notable structures include the Romanesque Cloister, Chapel of the Assumption, Chapter Room, and Refectory.
The cloisters of St Ferdinand and Las Claustrillas offer magnificent views from all angles.
Monastery Of Yuste
Residing in the Monastery of Yuste, the King of Spain’s royal estate holds historical significance as the former dwelling place of Emperor Charles V.
The monastery, located in La Vera (Cáceres), was reconstructed in the 20th century over ancient ruins. The building, where Charles V spent his last months from 1556 to 1558, features Gothic and Renaissance cloisters.
It has earned the European Heritage Label for its historical importance.
Pantheon Of Illustrious Men
Located next to the Basilica of Atocha, the Pantheon of Illustrious Men stands as a tribute to some of Spain’s most distinguished figures. Built in the late 19th century, it features a unique design with white and grey limestone stripes.
Inside, six mausoleums hold the tombs of notable individuals like José Canalejas and Eduardo Dato. Artists Manuel Benlliure and Agustín Querol crafted impressive funerary sculptures within the Pantheon.
The Royal Basilica Of Our Lady Of Atocha
The Royal Basilica of Our Lady of Atocha, a significant site in Spanish history and culture, holds a special place as a cherished sanctuary for the Spanish Monarchs.
In the mid-12th century, it was a small chapel where the Romanesque image of Our Lady of Atocha was worshipped.
The current building, constructed in the 20th century, became a sanctuary placed under Royal Patronage in 1602, with a tradition of presenting newborn Royal Infants to the Virgin.
Monastery Of Santa Isabel
Nestled within the Royal Estates is the Monastery of Santa Isabel, a historical site with dual foundations established by different Spanish monarchs. King Philip II founded a school for girls, while King Philip III’s wife, Margaret of Austria, established a cloistered convent for Augustinian Recollect nuns.
Designed by Juan Gómez de Mora in 1640, the church features a Latin cross floor plan, a dome, and a Baroque front, showcasing 17th and 18th-century paintings in the cloistered area.
First King Of Spain
Ferdinand II, also known as Ferdinand V, is often regarded as the first proclaimed King of Spain for his role in uniting the Spanish kingdoms.
However, it was King Charles I who officially held the title and marked the beginning of Habsburg Spain.
These Spanish monarchs played pivotal roles in shaping the nation’s history and influence on the world stage.
Spanish Monarchs
Alfonso IV reigned over Asturias and its subsequent territories from around 925 to 931, marking an early chapter in the history of Spanish monarchs. Following Alfonso IV, a series of monarchs ruled different regions that would eventually become part of Spain.
In the Kingdom of Castile, Ferdinand I ruled from 1035 to 1065, succeeded by Alfonso VI until 1109, briefly shared with Sancho II in 1065, then by Urraca until 1126, and finally by Alfonso VII until 1157.
The Kingdom of Aragon saw rulers like Ramiro I from 1035 to 1063, Sancho I from 1063 to 1094, Peter I from 1094 to 1104, Alfonso I from 1104 to 1134, and Ramiro II from 1134 to 1137.
In the Kingdom of Navarre, monarchs included Sancho III from 1000 to 1035, García IV from 1134 to 1150, Sancho VI from 1150 to 1194, Sancho VII from 1194 to 1234, and Theobald I from 1234 to 1253.
The Kingdom of Leon saw rulers such as Ordoño I from 850 to 866, Alfonso III from 866 to 910, García I from 910 to 914, Ordoño II from 914 to 924, and Fruela II in 924 and 925.
The culmination of the Reconquest at the end of the 15th century resulted in the disappearance of the Spanish-Muslim space and the political and territorial convergence of the most important Spanish crowns (Castile and Aragon) under the same monarchs, the Catholic Monarchs, Isabel and Fernando.
Restoration Period
This is a phrase that crops up from time to time. The Restoration period, which started with Alfonso XII in 1875, concluded in 1931 with the proclamation of the Second Republic and the end of the reign of Alfonso XIII.
The Spanish Restoration Period, also known as the Bourbon Restoration, ran from 1874 to 1931. It marked the return of the monarchy to Spain after a period of instability that included a republic. King Alfonso XII was crowned in 1875, ushering in a new constitution and a system with two main political parties that took turns in power. This period saw some economic growth, but also social and political tensions that would eventually lead to the Second Spanish Republic in 1931.
The Second Spanish Republic
The Second Spanish Republic, lasting from 1931 to 1939, replaced the monarchy in Spain. Following local elections where republicans won big, King Alfonso XIII went into exile. A new constitution established a democratic republic with ambitious reforms aimed at modernizing Spain. These included reducing the power of the Catholic Church, granting women suffrage, and addressing land ownership issues.
However, the Republic faced strong opposition from conservatives, leftists, and regional nationalists. These internal divisions, along with the global economic depression, ultimately contributed to the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936, which ended the Republic in 1939
Juan Carlos King Of Spain
Juan Carlos, the former King of Spain, reigned from 1975 to 2014. Born on January 5, 1938, in Rome, Italy, Juan Carlos played a pivotal role in Spain’s shift to democracy following the death of Francisco Franco. He ascended the Spanish throne just two days after Franco’s passing and was welcomed by the Spanish people.
On June 2, 2014, Juan Carlos announced his intention to step down. The 76-year-old king’s image had become tarnished after he embarked on a lavish African safari in 2012, at a time when the country was suffering nearly unprecedented economic hardship
As the grandson of King Alfonso XIII, Juan Carlos was the chosen successor due to his father, Don Juan, renouncing his rights in his favor. Known for his efforts in guiding Spain towards democracy, Juan Carlos was a popular figure during his reign.
However, controversies and health issues marked his later years as King, leading to his abdication in 2014 in favor of his son, King Felipe VI. The new king is also known as Felipe Juan Pablo Alfonso de Todos los Santos de Borbón y Grecia, just for the record.
Despite his achievements, Juan Carlos faced scrutiny for various scandals after his reign, causing him to move into self-imposed exile in 2020.
King Of Spain Net Worth
Amid transparency measures, King Felipe VI‘s disclosed net worth amounts to 2.57 million euros, including bank deposits, equity funds, and art objects, as reported in 2022.
The breakdown includes 2.26 million euros in bank deposits and equity funds, along with 300,000 euros in art objects.
Over a span of 25 years as prince and king, Felipe VI received approximately 4 million euros in remuneration.
The royal house’s decision to publicize the King’s wealth is viewed as exemplary, aligning with efforts to enhance transparency and integrity within the monarchy.
This move follows the closure of investigations into alleged financial irregularities involving Juan Carlos I.
The disclosure, part of ongoing transparency measures, underscores Felipe VI’s commitment to modernizing the crown and fostering public trust since his accession in 2014.
Annual declarations of Personal Income Tax and Wealth Tax further demonstrate the royal household’s dedication to openness and accountability in financial matters.
Finishing Things Off
The history of Spain is both intriguing and interesting. As a kid I used to watch The Flashing Blade on tv ( Yes, I know this shows how ancient I am ) then later on Sharpe which features the kingdom of Spain in both civil and military light.
Talking of military matters
Having received training (1985–88) at each of Spain’s armed service academies, Felipe while heir apparent was commissioned as an officer in the army, navy, and air force and was certified as a helicopter pilot
Sports
King Felipe VI of Spain called the Olympic Games Barcelona 1992 “a great collective success” . He was a member of the Spanish Olympic sailing team at the 1992 Games in Barcelona, where he finished sixth in the Soling event.
At the Barcelona Games, the King was a flag bearer for his nation, and he recalled “the honour of leading the Spanish delegation” during the Opening Ceremony.
Law
After earning a law degree (1993) from Madrid’s Autonomous University, he received a master’s degree (1995) in international relations from Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
Rule of Law
By way of an example the vast titles of Carlos IV, still in 1805, laid down in the Royal Letter preceding the Novísima Recopilación de las Leyes de España on its enactment: “Carlos by the grace of God, King of Castile, León, Aragon, the Two Sicilies, Jerusalem, Navarre, Granada, Toledo, Valencia, Galicia, Majorca, Minorca, Seville, Sardinia, Córdoba, Corsica, Murcia, Jaén, the Algarve, Algeciras, Gibraltar, the Canary Isles, the East and West Indies, islands and solid land in the Ocean sea; Archduke of Austria; Duke of Burgundy, Brabante and Milan; Count of Hapsburg, Flanders, Tirol, and Barcelona; Lord of Vizcaya and of Molina”.
It should be mentioned that article 56.2 of the current Spanish Constitution indicates that the title of the Head of State “is that of King of Spain (Rey de España) and he can use the others corresponding to the Crown”.
If the King becomes unfit for the exercise of his authority, and this incapacity is recognized by the Cortes Generales, the Crown Prince ( with all the other titles, including the Aragonese title of Prince of Girona) shall immediately assume the Regency, if he is of age. If he is not, the procedure outlined in the foregoing paragraph shall apply until the coming of age of the Crown Prince.
Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed reading this article about the King of Spain, plus other notable places and people. If you are ever in Madrid you can book to visit plenty of interesting and historical places through Viator and you can really immerse yourself in the history of this wonderful country.
