An influential figure in the life of Philip IV
On the day 1665, 359 years ago, María Coronel y Arana, known as María de Jesús de Ágreda, abbess of the Convent of the Conception Mothers of Ágreda, died. For more than two decades, María Jesús de Ágreda was a privileged advisor to King Felipe IV of Spain. His influence was so great that he played a key role in several important decisions of the monarch.
A close relationship with Philip IV
During the 22-year relationship between María Jesús de Ágreda and Felipe IV, more than 600 letters were exchanged. This correspondence addressed issues such as the War of Separation of Catalonia, the Peace of the Pyrenees and the changes in the country’s government. María Jesús de Ágreda exerted a significant influence on the king, even convincing him to contract a second marriage with Maria Anna of Austria after the death of his first wife, Isabel of France.
A role in politics and state affairs
The influence of María Jesús de Ágreda went beyond the personal questions of the king. He had a position against finding a negotiated exit in the Catalan conflict and defended the increase of military pressure on Catalonia. This position contributed to prolonging the war for another six years, causing significant damage to the economy and the Catalan population. However, some modern historians consider that María Jesús de Ágreda was a toxic character who fueled the black legend of the Spanish monarchy.
A controversial legacy
The figure of María Jesús de Ágreda continues to be the subject of debate and interpretation. Some people consider her an influential and powerful woman, while others see her as a controversial figure who contributed to the destruction of Catalonia. Be that as it may, her relationship with King Felipe IV and her role in state affairs make her a prominent figure in Spanish history.
