Today, the primary descendants of the House of Bourbon who hold monarchical titles are found in the royal families of Spain and Luxembourg.
The House of Bourbon is a distinguished European royal dynasty of French origin, a significant branch of the Capetian dynasty. Over centuries, various branches of this influential family expanded their reach across Europe, securing thrones and forming powerful alliances.
Historical Trajectory of the Bourbons
The lineage of the Bourbons can be traced back to Robert, Count of Clermont, the youngest son of King Louis IX of France. Their rise to prominence culminated in the 16th century when Henry IV, a Bourbon, ascended to the French throne.
- From French Roots to Spanish Crown: A pivotal moment in Bourbon history occurred in the 18th century when a branch directly descended from the French Bourbons came to rule Spain. This marked the establishment of the House of Bourbon in Spain, which continues to be the current Spanish royal family.
- Expansion to Other European Thrones: Following their establishment in Spain, further cadet branches, also descended from the Spanish Bourbons, went on to hold various thrones across Europe. These included the kingdoms of Naples and Sicily, as well as the Duchy of Parma. While these specific Bourbon lines no longer reign in those territories today, their historical presence underscores the widespread influence of the dynasty.
Current Bourbon Monarchies
As of today, the House of Bourbon maintains its royal presence in two European nations:
| Country | Current Head of State / Monarch | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | King Felipe VI | The current Spanish royal family, headed by King Felipe VI, is a direct continuation of the Bourbon branch that ascended to the Spanish throne in the 18th century. Their lineage traces directly back to the French Bourbons. |
| Luxembourg | Grand Duke Henri | The Grand Ducal House of Luxembourg is headed by Grand Duke Henri. While his house is officially the House of Nassau-Weilburg, he is a descendant of the Bourbon-Parma branch, which is a cadet branch of the Spanish Bourbons, thus affirming a connection to the broader House of Bourbon. |
These monarchies represent the enduring legacy of the Bourbon dynasty in modern Europe.
