Image Gallery
Portrait of Isabella I of Castile
Isabella I of Castile (1451-1504) ruled over Castile and Aragon alongside her husband Ferdinand II of Aragon (1452-1516). Isabella was a strong ruler, and per agreement with her husband, she would take care of anything that involved Castile since that kingdom was hers by birth. During her reign, she was influential in the future unification of Spain, was a sponsor of Christopher Columbus and his voyages, and was active during the recapture of Granada. Isabella was revered for her religious devotion and administrative skills and as one of the most influential of all female rulers.
Portrait of Isabella I of Castile. c. 1490. Oil on panel. Collection of the Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid, Spain.