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Museum of the History of Catalonia

On the fringe of the empire. 16th - 18th centuries

The 11th September 1714. Photo by Pepo Segura.

The 11th September 1714. Photo by Pepo Segura.

As part of the European and global empire of the Austrias, Catalonia retained its statehood and again enjoyed economic growth. The struggle between the Hispanic Monarchy and France for the dominion of Europe led to numerous border conflicts. The sea was also a frontier with other powerful enemies, the Barbary and Ottoman corsairs On the other hand, the social conflicts inside the country created increasing numbers of outlaws.

The construction of modern states in this period saw the growing authoritarianism of monarchies contrasted against the constitutional doctrines created by Catalan institutions. This was the political context for the Reapers’ War (1640-1659) and the War of Succession (1705-1715). The end of the latter conflict in 1716 resulted in the Nova Planta decrees, in which Philip V, the first Bourbon king of Spain, abolished the constitutions and institutions of Catalonia.

The prevailing style was the Baroque, characterised by exuberant yet pessimistic language, and the profound desire to express the dogmas of the Counter-Reformation.

OBJECTS

<p>Banner, 17th century, painted linen taffeta. Donation of Dr. Enric Cat. Museum of the History of Catalonia.</p>
Banner
Banner
<p><em>Nueva Planta de la Real Audiencia del Principado de Catalu&ntilde;a, establecida por su Magestad, con Decreto de diez y seis de Enero de mil setecientos y diez y seis </em>(Nueva Planta of the Real Audience of the Principality of Catalonia, established by his Majesty by Decree as of the sixteenth of January, in the the year seventeen sixteen)<em>.&nbsp;</em>Barcelona, 1716. Joseph Texid&oacute;, Impressor del Rey N. Sr. Col.&nbsp;Museum of the History of Catalonia.</p>

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Decree of Nova Planta
Decree of Nova Planta
<p>Saint Michael, archangel, 17th-18th century, painted wood, the fortified monastery of Saint Miquel d&rsquo;Escornalbou.&nbsp;Museum of the History of Catalonia.</p>
The archangel saint Michael
The archangel saint Michael
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