Ten years ago, on June 19, 2014, the Spanish Royal Household underwent a significant transformation when Felipe VI and Letizia assumed the throne following the abdication of King Emeritus Juan Carlos.
This change marked a new era for the monarchy, with a more austere, approachable and transparent approach.
However, the arrival of the new monarchs also brought about a crucial change for their eldest daughter, Leonor.
Leonor’s Promotion to Princess of Asturias
On the same day that Felipe VI became king, Leonor went from infanta to princess of Asturias, assuming the role of heir to the throne.
This new title significantly increased her responsibilities, placing her as the future representative of all Spanish citizens.
During the last decade, Leonor has faced several key moments that have defined her institutional role.
The Decoration with the Golden Fleece
On January 30, 2018, Felipe VI awarded his daughter the highest decoration of the Spanish Royal House: the collar of the Insigne Orden del Toisón de Oro.
This symbolic act not only reinforced her status as a princess, but also underscored the commitment and expectations placed on her.
“You will be permanently guided by the Constitution, complying with it and observing it,” King Felipe VI told her during the ceremony.
Leonor’s First Public Speech
Princess Leonor, who until then had had a childhood shielded from the public eye, gave her first speech at the age of 13.
On October 31, 2018, on her birthday, she read Article 1 of the Preliminary Title of the Constitution at the headquarters of the Cervantes Institute.
This event marked the beginning of his public life. A year later, on October 18, 2019, she spoke again at the Princess of Asturias Foundation Awards Ceremony, where she expressed, that it was “a very important day” for her and that she had waited with “a lot of illision”.
First joint events with Sofia
Leonor has not been alone on this trip; her younger sister, Sofia, has been a constant support.
The sisters have participated together in several official events, as in 2021, when they celebrated World Environment Day.
Their complicity and mutual support have been evident at every event, strengthening their relationship and their public image.
Studies at UWC Atlantic College
In 2021, Leonor began a new stage in her life by moving to Wales to study the International Baccalaureate at the prestigious UWC Atlantic College.
This challenge represented her first experience living away from home.
The princess successfully completed her studies, and her family accompanied her at her graduation, highlighting an iconic family photo that showed the normality and closeness of the royals.
Leonor’s Military Training
After graduating, Leonor entered the General Military Academy of Zaragoza to begin her military training, a requirement for any future monarch of Spain.
At this stage, she faced challenges outside her comfort zone, such as military maneuvers and official acts, including the symbolic swearing in of the flag.
Princess of Asturias Awards 2023
A few days shy of her 18th birthday, Leonor dazzled at the Princess of Asturias Awards 2023, showing an evolution in her style and professionalism.
This event underlined her maturity and her readiness to take on greater responsibilities in the future.
Coming of Age and Swearing in of the Constitution
On October 31, 2023, Leonor came of age, a milestone that coincided with her swearing in of the Constitution in the Congress of Deputies.
In her first speech as an adult, Leonor promised: “I owe myself, from today, to all Spaniards. I will serve at all times with respect and loyalty”.
Her words reflected her commitment and confidence in the future of Spain.
In these ten years, Leonor has demonstrated her ability to assume her role as future queen, marking each step with determination and dedication.
Her path has been full of significant moments that have forged her identity as princess of Asturias and future sovereign of Spain.