Delving into the rich tapestry of Spanish history, these films offer a window into the lives of the country's monarchs, showcasing their triumphs, tribulations, and the political machinations of their eras. From the grandeur of the Habsburg dynasty to the tumultuous reign of the Bourbons, these cinematic gems provide not just entertainment but also a deeper understanding of Spain's historical narrative. Whether you're a history buff or simply love a good period drama, this collection is sure to captivate and educate.

The Last Emperor (1987)
Description: Although focused on the Chinese emperor, the film includes scenes where the Spanish monarchy plays a role in international diplomacy, reflecting the global influence of Spanish royalty.
Fact: The film won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was the first Western film allowed to shoot inside the Forbidden City.


The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)
Description: While primarily focusing on English history, this film includes significant interactions with Spanish royalty through the marriage of Henry VIII to Catherine of Aragon, offering insight into the Spanish influence on English politics.
Fact: The film was shot in several locations in England and Spain to capture the authenticity of the period.


The Monk (2011)
Description: Set in 17th-century Spain, this film explores the life of a monk whose path crosses with the Spanish nobility, reflecting the moral and political complexities of the time.
Fact: The film was adapted from Matthew Lewis's Gothic novel, which was inspired by real events in Spanish history.


The Queen of Spain (2016)
Description: This sequel to "The Girl of Your Dreams" follows a Spanish actress who returns to Spain during Franco's regime, intertwining her story with the historical backdrop of the Spanish monarchy's decline.
Fact: The film features Penélope Cruz reprising her role from the original film, and it was shot in both Spain and the UK.


The Spanish Princess (2019)
Description: This TV series, while not a film, provides a detailed look at Catherine of Aragon's life, her marriage to Henry VIII, and her role in the Spanish-English alliance.
Fact: The series was filmed in various locations in England and Spain to authentically recreate the settings of the time.


Juana la Loca (2001)
Description: This film focuses on Juana of Castile, known as "Juana la Loca," and her tumultuous marriage to Philip the Handsome, offering a tragic portrayal of Spanish royal life.
Fact: The film was a major box office success in Spain and was nominated for several Goya Awards.


Goya's Ghosts (2006)
Description: Set during the Spanish Inquisition, this film features Francisco Goya and his interactions with the Spanish monarchy, particularly Queen Maria Luisa of Parma, offering a glimpse into the political and religious turmoil of the time.
Fact: Milos Forman, the director, was inspired by Goya's paintings to create this film, which was shot in Spain and Malta.


The King of Havana (2015)
Description: This film, while not directly about Spanish monarchs, explores the life of a Cuban immigrant in Spain, reflecting on the historical ties between Cuba and Spain, including the influence of Spanish royalty.
Fact: The film was shot in both Cuba and Spain, providing a rich backdrop for its narrative.


The Royal Exchange (2017)
Description: This film explores the political marriage between the French and Spanish royal families, highlighting the exchange of princesses in 1721, which was intended to cement an alliance but led to personal tragedies.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Chantal Thomas, and it was shot in both French and Spanish to reflect the bilingual nature of the royal courts.


The Borgias (2006)
Description: This Spanish film delves into the notorious Borgia family, whose rise to power in the Papacy had significant implications for Spanish politics and the monarchy.
Fact: The film was produced to coincide with the 500th anniversary of the death of Pope Alexander VI, a Borgia.
