Foundation of the Academy of Mathematics in Madrid by Felipe II (Q2702172)

The Academy of Mathematics in Madrid was founded by Felipe II, in 1582, in Lisbon, during his visit on the occasion of the annexation of Portugal to the Spanish Empire. The Academy, created under the insistence of Juan de Herrera, and its stated objectives were to stimulate the study of mathematics, so necessary for the expansion of the kingdom. The Academy was dissolved in 1625, by order of Felipe IV. NEWLINENEWLINENEWLINEIn this short commemorative paper, the author briefly describes the career of Juan de Herrera, that led to the creation of the Academy, and the first steps taken by him to establish the institution in Madrid upon the return of Felipe II from Portugal, in 1583. The first courses offered by the Academy are listed, as well as some writing projects sponsored by the Academy. Interesting facts, such as the enrollment of Lope de Vega in the Academy, are reported.NEWLINENEWLINEFor the entire collection see [Zbl 0952.00066].