Louis XIV

Louis XIV (1638-1715) known as "The Sun King", was the King of France from the mid 17th century into the early 18th century. He became king at the age of four years and eight months old, but was not allowed to rule until he was 18. After that he was king for almost 60 years. He ruled France as an absolute monarch, guided by the principal "l'état, c'est moi". He was famous for his lavish entertainments at the Palace of Versailles near Paris. During his reign Louis XIV arguably ruled the most powerful and grandiose nation in Europe.