Louis XIV, known as the "Sun King," reigned over France from 1643 to 1715. He is famous for his embodiment of absolute monarchy, famously stating, "L'état, c'est moi" ("I am the state"). Under his rule, France became a leading European power, and he centralized government authority, diminishing the power of nobles. Louis XIV is also noted for his lavish lifestyle and the construction of the Palace of Versailles, which symbolized royal grandeur and the absolute power of the monarchy. His extensive patronage of the arts led to cultural flourishing, and his reign had lasting impacts on France's political structure and European history.