Princess Leonor has taken a significant step by taking off her military uniform and traveling to Asturias, the land that bestows her royal title.
This trip has a special background, as it is her first official engagement in the region that means so much to her family and which, in turn, brings her closer to her future role on the Spanish throne, currently occupied by her father, King Felipe VI.
Until now, she had always been accompanied by her parents in her appearances in Asturias, but as she came of age, it was her turn to make a commitment independently.
At 18 years old, Leonor dazzled everyone with a beautiful baby blue suit, which she combined with a black top and black shoes, marking her presence at this important event.
Distinctions for Princess Leonor in Asturias
During her visit to Asturias, the Princess became Honorary Mayor this Thursday, October 24, 2024, a recognition that her father also received previously.
In addition, she was awarded the Medal of Asturias, a gesture that symbolizes her connection with this region, to which she bears her princess’s name.
The place where the Princess received the title has emotional significance. It was in the same hall where her mother was named Favorite Daughter of Oviedo in 2007.
During her speech, Leonor expressed her gratitude for the affection that Asturians have always shown her, and nostalgically recalled the family ties and stories that connect her to this land.
“My Asturian family is very Asturian, you know what I mean,” said the Princess, as she evoked her childhood exploring the forests and walking among chestnut trees and corbayos.
She also fondly remembered her great-grandmother, Menchu Álvarez del Valle, who shared with her and her sister, Sofía, anecdotes about the Asturias of yesteryear and the simple pleasures of her childhood, such as enjoying sea urchins, despite her sister’s surprise.
Leonor made clear her love for Asturias: “I carry Asturias in my heart. It will always be my beloved homeland,” she said, emphasizing her pride in having ‘Asturian blood,’ which she said not only influences her character but represents a real joy. “Today, Asturians are the protagonists of these words, as an embrace I give them on this day of recognitions.”
The arrival of the Princess did not go unnoticed. Numerous citizens gathered in front of the town hall to see her up close on this significant day.
Before entering, Leonor took a moment to interact with the crowd, greeting and thanking them for their affection, to which the public responded with cheers and applause. It was a memorable day, full of emotions and another step towards her future as the next Queen of Spain.
Princess Leonor’s Agenda in Asturias
In addition to the two distinctions that the eldest daughter of King Felipe and Queen Letizia has received, in the afternoon Leonor is scheduled to preside over the concert prior to the Princess of Asturias Awards ceremony.
She will be accompanied by her parents, Felipe and Letizia, as well as her sister, Infanta Sofia. On Friday, October 25, the Royal Family will participate in a series of audiences at the Reconquista Hotel and in the afternoon, the Princess of Asturias Foundation Awards Ceremony will take place.
The institutional agenda ends on Saturday morning with a visit to the Exemplary Village 2024.
Así ha sido el acto de entrega del título de Alcaldesa Honoraria de Oviedo a la Princesa de Asturias.
➡️https://t.co/YBjQggfHe3 pic.twitter.com/SIYnSnni5T
— Casa de S.M. el Rey (@CasaReal) October 24, 2024