It has always been said that raising an heir requires clear rules, but in the case of Princess Leonor, the story takes a different turn. The Zarzuela never drafted a manual to guide her conduct. There was neither an internal document nor an official list. What did exist was an idea that was considered at the time and then shelved. The Royal Household opted for a simpler method that was more in keeping with its tradition.
Leonor’s institutional education has been shaped by unwritten rules. She observes, asks questions, and learns as she goes. Her father, King Felipe VI, serves as her most solid example and reference. Her father’s demeanor in public, his attentive listening, and his ability to remain calm in tense situations form the foundation of the model his daughter follows. It’s no coincidence that those who work closely with the princess consistently note her growth with each appearance.
The guidelines she receives are simple and effective. Smile without overdoing it, express gratitude naturally, avoid opinions that could cause a stir, and maintain a measured level of closeness. The Spanish monarchy doesn’t operate with the same rigidity as the British one. Here, the protocol is a bit more flexible, allowing Leonor to shape her own image while still maintaining the institutional distance required by her role. This blend explains why her public presence has become more confident.
The absence of a manual doesn’t mean improvisation. Rather, it reflects a strategy aimed at helping the future head of state understand her role from the inside. Leonor’s education is an evolving process that adapts to the times and the sensibilities of a generation that views royalty through a different lens.