This October 31, Princess Leonor celebrates her 19th birthday immersed in an intense phase of preparation to assume the role that will one day correspond to her as the future Queen of Spain.
Her military training at the Marín Naval Academy marks a milestone in her life and, for her, represents a commitment to her family’s legacy and the responsibilities of her future.
Since she was born in the early hours of October 31, 2005, Leonor has been in the spotlight, and the then Prince Felipe, emotionally moved, declared about his newborn daughter: “She is very pretty, but I am not impartial. She changes day by day”.
Princess Leonor’s 19th birthday: Prepared for Leadership
Princess Leonor’s education has been carefully designed to prepare her for her future role in a monarchy that is increasingly adapting to modern times.
Since September 2023, Leonor has begun a three-year military training program at Spanish Army academies, a similar path to that followed by other European heirs, although in her case it is longer.
This rigorous program will end in 2026 and will make her one of the best-prepared heirs in military terms, encompassing training in the Army, Navy and Air Force.
In this respect, Leonor differs from other crown princesses of her generation. Ingrid Alexandra of Norway and Elisabeth of Belgium, for example, have also received military training, albeit for much shorter periods.
This dedication shows Leonor’s seriousness towards her role, something that is outlined since her childhood, when she assumed her first public act at the age of 13, reading article one of the Spanish Constitution.
A style of her own that evolves with her
As Leonor has grown up, her style has also evolved, reflecting a blend of tradition and modernity.
Although her public appearances in her early years were more formal and with a classic style guided by Queen Letizia, today the princess shows an identity of her own in the way she dresses.
Her latest choices include pieces from national brands such as Moisés Nieto, as well as casual looks from affordable brands such as Sfera and Mango.
This simple yet elegant style resonates not only in Spain, but also with her contemporaries in Europe, who seek to reflect her commitment to current trends without losing the sophistication befitting a princess.
“It seems that Leonor now flies solo in stylistic matters,” comment those who have seen her at recent public events. However, her mother remains a present influence, as is clear when the two exchange clothes or appear in similar outfits on informal occasions.
A private life marked by discretion
From a very young age, Leonor’s life has been jealously guarded by her parents. Queen Letizia has been firm in her decision to protect her daughters’ childhood and privacy, avoiding unnecessary media exposure.
To this day, Leonor’s relationship with her family remains a closed circle, focused on strengthening their most intimate ties and away from any controversy that could affect her.
She is rarely seen with other members of the Borbón family in public, and her close circle is mainly made up of her parents, her sister Sofía and her maternal grandmother, Paloma Rocasolano.
Sharing experiences with other princesses
Leonor also shares some similarities with other European heiresses. Both she and Elisabeth of Belgium attended the UWC Atlantic College boarding school in Wales, where they completed their baccalaureate and experienced international life in a multicultural environment.
These experiences not only allowed them to learn about other cultures, but also to develop a sense of independence and responsibility.
Like Leonor, Elisabeth also chose to continue her education abroad and is now studying for a master’s degree at Harvard, while Ingrid Alexandra from Norway has chosen to fulfill her military training at the Engineer Battalion of the Norwegian Armed Forces.
Looking to the future
At 19 years of age, Princess Leonor stands as one of the best-prepared heirs of her generation. Her education, both academic and military, and her lifestyle reflect the dedication and commitment she feels towards her country and her role in the crown.
In these crucial years of her life, Leonor continues to take firm steps towards her destiny as the future queen of Spain, with a preparation that encompasses not only military duty, but also a deep sense of identity and responsibility.