Philip II of Spain (Spanish: Felipe II; Portuguese: Filipe I ; 21 May 1527 – 13 September 1598) is King of Spain (kingdoms of Castile, Navarra, this one disputed by the French and the Crown of Aragon) and Portugal, Naples, Sicily, and, while married to Mary I, King of England and Ireland.

He is lord of the Seventeen Provinces from 1556 until 1581, holding various titles for the individual territories such as Duke or Count.

Also known as Philip the Prudent, he rules one of the world's largest empires which includes territories in every continent known to Europeans at this time.

Philip was born in Valladolid, the son of Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire (who also reigned as Charles I of Spain) and his consort Isabella of Portugal.

During his reign, Spain is the foremost Western European power.

Under his rule, Spain reaches the height of its influence and power, directing explorations all around the world and settling the colonization of territories in all the known continents.

He is described by the Venetian ambassador Paolo Fagolo in 1563 as "slight of stature and roundfaced, with pale blue eyes, somewhat prominent lip, and pink skin, but his overall appearance is very attractive."

The Ambassador goes on to say "He dresses very tastefully, and everything that he does is courteous and gracious.