10 Monarchs Who Have Ruled for Centuries: Uncover Their Secrets to Longevity

Louis XIV

Time on the throne: 72 years and 110 days

As a beacon of magnificence, King Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, stands tall as history's most enduring monarch. With a regal presence and a symbol of grandeur, he took the throne at a mere age of 4, succeeding his father as the ruler of France. With an unwavering vision, King Louis XIV expanded the kingdom's borders and fortified its military might. He also crafted a symbol of his wealth and power, the opulent Palace of Versailles, a masterpiece of architecture and a testament to his reign.

Elizabeth II

Time on the throne: 70 years and 214 days

The reign of Queen Elizabeth II is the longest in British history. In 1952, she became king at the age of 25. The laws of the United Kingdom underwent significant revisions during her rule.

Bhumibol Adulyadej

Time on the throne: 70 years and 126 days

The late King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej, was a leader who prioritized providing assistance to the poor. He gained international acclaim for his compassion.

Johann II

Time on the throne: 70 years and 91 days

The first constitution of Liechtenstein was issued by Johann II. He ratified a second constitution after World War I, making the kingdom a constitutional monarchy. Because of his support for science and generosity to the underprivileged, he was dubbed Johann the Good.

Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin II

Time on the throne: 68 years and 220 days

Alor Setar, the state capital of Kedah, Malaysia, and other well-known landmarks were founded by Sultan Muhammad Jiwa. A major transportation hub can be found on the west bank of the Kedah River in Alor Setar.

Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal I

Time on the throne: 68 years and 33 days

The Mayan king of Palenque, which is now part of Mexico, was named Kinich Janaab Pakal I. He transformed Palenque from a sleepy village into a grand city with enormous pyramid-shaped temples and intricately carved inscriptions.

Franz Joseph I

Time on the throne: 67 years and 355 days

During the last few decades of the Habsburg Empire's existence, Joseph I served as emperor of Austria-Hungary. Austria and Germany entered World War I as a result of his ultimatum to Serbia.

Chan Imix Kʼawiil

Time on the throne: 67 years and 130 days

The ancient Mayan city of Copán in Honduras was ruled by Chan Imix Kawail for the longest time. He built numerous monuments to help the city recover from previous disasters.

Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies

Time on the throne: 65 years and 90 days

Ferdinand I of Naples was Ferdinand III of Sicily. But in 1806, Napoleon Bonaparte overthrew him and removed him from Naples. Ferdinand renamed himself king of the Two Sicilies after unifying Sicily and Naples in 1816 following Napoleon's fall.

Queen Victoria

Time on the throne: 63 years and 216 days

With a significant legacy, Queen Victoria was the longest-serving monarch of Great Britain. Since the British Empire was at its height, with colonies and possessions on every continent, her reign was known as the Victorian Era.