The Portuguese Monarchy refers to the royal family that ruled Portugal from the 12th century until the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910. The monarchy began with Afonso I, who became the first king of Portugal after the country gained independence from Leon. Over the centuries, the monarchy saw various dynasties, including the Aviz and Braganza families, which played significant roles in Portugal's exploration and colonial expansion. The monarchy was characterized by periods of prosperity and turmoil, including the Iberian Union with Spain from 1580 to 1640. The monarchy faced challenges such as political instability, economic decline, and social unrest, leading to its eventual abolition. The last king, Manuel II, reigned briefly