The Guardia Civil is Spain's national gendarmerie and oldest law enforcement agency, operating under the authority of both the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Defence. Its mandate encompasses public security, rural policing, border and customs protection, highway traffic enforcement, and counter-terrorism operations. Founded in 1844 by the 2nd Duke of Ahumada during the reign of Queen Isabella II to combat widespread rural banditry, it earned the historic moniker 'La Benemérita' for its dedicated service to the public.