Alfonso X was proclaimed king of Castile and León after the death of his father, Ferdinand III. Born in 1221, Alfonso became known as Alfonso the Wise due to his interest in science, literature, and law. His proclamation occurred in Toledo, a city that was not only political but also cultural heartland during the 13th century. The coronation was a pivotal moment in the history of Castile and León, as Alfonso aimed to build on his father's legacy of reconquest and governance. A key aspect of Alfonso's reign would be his establishment of legal codes and patronage of the arts, highlighting his commitment to a more civilized approach to rulership amidst the complex social landscape of medieval Spain.

The reign of Alfonso X was marked by significant cultural contributions, including the compilation of the 'Siete Partidas', a set of legal codes that would influence Spanish law for centuries. His work attracted scholars from various backgrounds, contributing to an intellectual revival. Furthermore, Alfonso fostered the translation movement in Toledo, making classical texts accessible to a broader audience. This created a rich interplay between the Islamic and Christian worlds, and helped to position Spain as a center of knowledge. Despite facing opposition and challenges from nobility and rival factions, Alfonso's focus on culture and legal reform set a precedent in the governance of the kingdom, reinforcing the importance of secular knowledge alongside religious authority.