RACT The Spanish media system is in a century-old transition which is conditioned by the political, social, and economic elements of that country. The socio-political history of Spain is characterized by political conflicts and struggles for power within the country itself, which have, on several occasions, led the country to state instability and a complete change in the form of government. Such circumstances influenced the development of all Spanish institutions, and thus the media system. The aim of this review is to present the chronological overview of the historical development of the Spanish media system, while looking at its causal relationship with other social actors, predominantly political systems, in the historical and social context of Spain. What distinguishes the Spanish media system from other European countries is the recent freedom of the media, and the question arises as to what extent they are today free from state control and whose interests they serve. Namely, as in the rest of Europe, the first media in Spain emerged as a tool of the aristocracy, intended to serve the interests of the rulers; followed by the dictatorial regime of Francisco Franco during whose rule the media system was also supervised and controlled. With Franco's death, Spain took over the democratic system in 1976, but as the aristocracy continues to participate in the running of the state, Spain is defined as a constitutional monarchy. Under these political circumstances, legislative reforms are taking place that has contributed to the development of media freedom, the increase of the media market, and the diversity of media content. Despite the shift towards democratic-liberal values, the Spanish media system remains subject to several challenges in the modern age as some habits from previous political systems are still present and the question is when and whether they will be eradicated.