Living In Spain – Getting To Know The Spanish Monarchy

Living in the Costa Blanca we appreciate the wonderful lifestyle this Mediterreanean paradise has to offer but, beyond that is the background to this now thriving area of Spain. The history of this region has been influenced over the centuries with that of the Spanish monarchy and the fabric of Spanish society throughout the country.

The Birth of a Nation

The Visigothic Kingdom begun ruling Spain in the 5th century but, it was during the Christian Reconquista to expel the Moors that the foundations of modern Spain begun. The 15th century marked a privotel moment in the history of Spain with the rise of the House of Trastamara. Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon united Spain and oversaw the final expulsion of the Moors from the city of Granada.

They were also the parents of Catherine of Aregon who was initially married to Arthur, Prince of Wales of the UK prior to his death. She then became Henry VIII first wife and reigning by his side as Queen of England for 24 years until Henry insisted on an annulment and married Anne Bolyn. Together with this Christopher Columbus discovered the New World and a period of power and prosperity in Spain begun. Subsequently the Habsbug Dynasty ascended to the Spanish throne under the reign of Charles I (Holy Roman Emperor Charles V) propelling Spain to powerful heights and control of vast overseas terrotories in the Americas and Europe. However, following several expensive wars their ambition plumeted the country in to economic decline and the dynasty together with their empire died with Charles II in 1700.

Medieval Kingdoms

Valencia as a region and the Costa Blanca formed part of the kingdom of Valencia and the Crown of Aragon at this time and this played an important part in the eventual unification of the country.

A New Era – The Bourban Dynasty

 The death of Charles Hasburg led to the war of Spanish Succession which concluded with the ascension of Philip V in 1714 who was the first Bourban king of Spain. Their dynasty brought about significant reform and the centralisation of power that shapes the country today. Charles III is particularly well remembered for his enlightened policies, the expusion fo the Jesuits and the promotion of scientific and cultural development.

Difficult Times for Spain

The 19th century brought civil war, instability and foreign invation to Spain which led to the monarchy being overthrown and then restored on several occasions while different factions fought for power. This led towards a short period of stability under the rule of Alfonso XIII in the 20th century but, this was short lived. The Second Spanish Republic was declared in 1931 leading to a devastating civil war and the ultimate victory of the Nationalist forces under the dictatorship of General Francisco Franco. This ushered in a long period of authoritarian rule until quite recent times when Franco died in 1975. This is when Spain transitioned to the constitutional monarchy we know today under King Juan Carlos I. 

A New Era for a Modern Democratic Spain

The re-instated monarchy played an important part in Spain’s transition towards becoming a democratic country.  In 2014 Juan Carlos I abdicated after , the decision was partly due to his wish to allow in a new era but, his age, health issues and a series of scandals had also tarnished his replutation.

However, he retains the title of King Emeritus and continues to perform ceremonial duties. Today his son Filipe VI serves as a symbol of national unity together with his wife Queen Letizia. They have two children Infata Sofia and Princess Leonor. His mother Queen Sofia of Spain continues active duties to support the monarchy and is dedicated to extensive charitable work making her a beloved figure in the country and beyond.

Monarchy and the Spanish Royal Family in the Costa Blanca

When you move to the Costa Blanca and begin to explore more of your new home you will easily see the enduring legacy left be previous Spanish monarch in the historic cities, castles and palaces. The grandeur of Alicante along the coast to Denai and Javea towards the beautiful city of Valencia echos the countries history and Spanish monarchs continue to visit the region on special occasions. They also patronise several cultural and charitable initiatives which have impacts on the Costa Blanca and Community of Valencia.

Conclusion

Although they have faced controversy throughout their history the Spanish monarchy have played a vital role in shaping the identity of the country. Spain continues to evolve and adapt with the monarchy remaining an important part of the country’s politics and culture.