What No One Told You About Philip III: The King Who Ruled Spain While Favorites Held Power

The reign of Philip III, the Pious, is one of the most intriguing yet somber periods in Spanish history. From 1598 to 1621, this monarch of the House of Habsburg sat on the throne while the reins of power were handled by his favorites, particularly the famous Duke of Lerma. This article unravels the secrets, intrigues, and decadence that marked his rule, a time when the grandeur of the Spanish Empire began to fade amidst a sea of conflicts and conspiracies.

Philip III's Ascension to the Throne: A Young King Facing a Declining Nation

Philip III ascended to the throne at the young age of 21, following the death of his father, Philip II. The year was 1598, and Spain was in a state of crisis. The economy was teetering due to the high costs of wars in Europe and pressure from external enemies like England and France. Despite being a king of royal blood, many chroniclers of the time, such as the historian Juan Antonio de Vera y Figueroa, asserted that true governance lay in the hands of his favorite, the Duke of Lerma.

This cunning and manipulative noble not only became Philip III's trusted advisor but also the true architect of political decisions. Known for his ability to influence the young king, the Duke of Lerma took control of the court, becoming a central figure in the Spanish government at a time when political tensions began to escalate.

The Power of the Favorites: The Shadow Behind Philip III's Throne

The role of the Duke of Lerma is a clear example of how favorites, those ineffable trusted men, became the true rulers of Spain. Lerma, a nobleman...