Felipe II (1527–1598) The Renaissance King with a Big Ego & Painful Death

Imagine a man so convinced of his divine right to rule that he believed his kingdom wasn’t just vast—it was illuminated 24/7 by the sun itself. Enter Felipe II of Spain, the ultimate monarch with a cosmic-sized ego to match his colossal empire. Born in 1527, Felipe wasn’t just any king; he was the king—God’s personal pick to manage the affairs of the mortal world. And he had every reason to think so, with a résumé so glittering it could outshine the treasures of the Americas (which he also happened to own).

Spain's Golden Age of Architecture

Discover the Splendor of Spanish Renaissance Architecture: The Golden Age

Step back in time to the opulent world of 16th-century Spain, a period celebrated as the "Golden Age" of art, culture, and architecture. Book NOW for this engaging talk with slides where we will explore the iconic architectural styles, masterful architects, and royal patrons that defined an era of unparalleled wealth.

Who is commemorated by the bust in Benissa?

DID YOU KNOW

The bust in Benissa commemorates Jaume el Conqueridor (James the Conqueror) King James I of Aragon, who reigned from 1213 to 1276. He is renowned for his military campaigns that expanded the Crown of Aragon's territories, including the conquest of Valencia in 1238. This expansion played a significant role in shaping the cultural and historical landscape of the region.

What defines the Monastery of San Jerónimo's church portal?

The door and portal of the Iglesia del Monasterio Jerónimo de la Concepción (Monasterio de San Jerónimo) in Granada, Andalucía, are remarkable examples of Renaissance architecture, crafted by Martín Díaz Navarrete around 1593. 

What secrets lie within the portal of Carlos V at the Alcázar of Toledo?

The main portal of Carlos V at the Alcázar of Toledo is a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, reflecting the grandeur and ambition of Carlos I of Spain during his reign. Designed in the Plateresque style, the portal combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences, showcasing the highly decorative and intricate craftsmanship of the era. 

Dwarfs at Felipe IV’s Court: The Secret Role You Didn’t Know About!

Sebastián de Morra 1645 - Velazquez - Museo del Prado, Dominio público

DID YOU KNOW? Sebastián de Morra (born 1624) was an Italian dwarf who became a prominent figure at the Spanish court of King Felipe IV. His origins are not entirely clear, but it is assumed that he came from southern Italy. He was probably born in Naples, where he was part of the royal court or noble households before being brought to Spain. Sebastián de Morra's physical constitution, as seen in Velázquez's famous portrait, suggests that he had a form of dwarfism, yet he was highly respected at court for his wit, charm and unique position.

A RARE LOOK INSIDE A 1616 RENAISSANCE CHAPEL IN JAVEA

On a recent Javea Walk with a nice group, we were lucky enough to find the large metal doors of the Convento de los Mínimos chapel open. This chapel was originally built in 1616. After its destruction, it was rebuilt in 1946 especially for the Augustinian nuns in Xàbia (Jávea), who had lost their convent and chapel in the town centre when they were destroyed during the Spanish Civil War in 1936.