Gennaro VARRIALE
Abstract. This essay has two aims. First, it analyzes the Spanish monarchy’s intelligence system with special reference to its European
domains ca. 1550-1650. Secondly, it pays particular attention to the role of espionage in the Spanish struggle against the Ottoman empire.
Thus it contributes to two current historiographical debates by arguing that, first, early modern Spanish intelligence networks were
crucial means whereby the Spanish monarchy pursued its geopolitical goals and defined the best ways to fight against its main enemies in
the Mediterranean, namely, the Turks, and, consequently against their European allies, such as Elizabethan England and France. Traditionally, the study of Spanish foreign policy has shied away from intelligence sources. Instead, this article demonstrates that they are
essential if we are to get to grips with motives, planning and geopolitical vision in early modern affairs. Secondly, it argues that the
Ottoman empire was perceived and treated as Spain’s greatest foes throughout the period under consideration here. English-speaking historians are still reluctant to admit that the Spanish empire considered its fight against England as rather peripheral by comparison with its struggle against the mighty Turks. This article dovetails neatly with the latest Spanish-language historiography about it by showing that the Spanish monarchy spent significant intelligence resources on the Ottomans above all other threats.
Keywords: intelligence, Spanish monarchy, Ottoman empire, geopolitics, early modern Europe