CHARLES III

KING CHARLES III OF SPAIN

Discover the impactful reign of King Charles III of Spain with a museum-quality collection of rare, signed and autographed documents, royal decrees, personal letters, and official correspondences that highlight the legacy of a monarch celebrated as a reformer and modernizer. Charles III, who ruled from 1759 to 1788, is remembered for his transformative policies that brought Spain into the Enlightenment era, strengthening its administration, economy, and international influence. This carefully curated archive provides historians, collectors, and enthusiasts with an in-depth look at Charles III’s vision, capturing his commitment to progress, education, and social reform. Each document, many signed personally by Charles III, reveals his approach to governance and his dedication to improving Spain’s infrastructure, trade, and military.

Charles III’s reign was marked by sweeping reforms aimed at modernizing Spain from within, as he introduced progressive policies that improved urban planning, revamped the legal system, promoted public health, and supported scientific advancement. Known as the “Enlightened Despot,” he fostered education and established institutions to support the arts and sciences, leaving an enduring cultural legacy. His foreign policy, which included alliances with France and military support for the American Revolutionary War, reasserted Spain’s presence on the world stage. This collection captures the spirit of Charles III’s rule, providing a glimpse into his forward-thinking leadership. For those interested in the intersection of monarchy and the Enlightenment, this archive offers a comprehensive look into the life and achievements of King Charles III of Spain, a ruler whose vision of progress defined a new era for his nation.