Infanta Sofia, daughter of King Felipe and Queen Letizia, celebrates her 17th birthday today, April 29th.
This year’s celebration is unique for the young girl, as it is her first birthday away from the warmth of her family, at the prestigious UWC Atlantic College in Wales, where she began her studies last August.
This event represents a milestone in Sofia’s life, as she will be celebrating her birthday in a new environment, surrounded by friends and fellow students.
Despite the distance, she will probably remain close to her family via video call, allowing her to share her joy with her loved ones.
Infanta Sofia’s birthday
The Infanta’s birthday is notable not only for its personal context, but also because it coincides with an important announcement regarding her role in the monarchy.
Soon, Sofia will take on greater institutional responsibilities, starting with presiding over the awards ceremony of a photography competition, marking the beginning of her official solo agenda.
This step forward in her institutional career is a clear indication of her growing involvement in the functions of the Crown, demonstrating her commitment and readiness to assume such responsibilities.
The Infanta Sofia’s seventeenth birthday is a day of double celebration: on the one hand, her transition to adulthood in a challenging and enriching academic environment.
On the other, the beginning of a new phase in her public life, which promises to be as promising as her career to date.
Why there are no oficial birthday photos
The absence of official photographs on the occasion of the Infanta Sofia’s birthday has aroused curiosity.
It is noteworthy that, unlike other monarchies, the Spanish royal family chooses not to release images of private celebrations such as birthdays.
The discretion with which King Felipe and Queen Letizia handle their anniversaries and birthdays is well known, with only a few details of intimate celebrations in restaurants or events at the palace occasionally made public.
Globally, it is common for other royal houses to use social media to send congratulations and share exclusive moments.
For example, a tender image of England’s Prince Louis was recently circulated to celebrate his birthday.
The same was done by the Royal House of Jordan with Princess Rawja, who celebrated her 30th birthday a few days ago.
However, the Spanish monarchy keeps a low profile in this regard, resisting the trend of publishing on digital platforms.
What’s more, the kings are a notable exception, having no official Instagram account and limiting their Twitter presence to purely institutional matters.
This resolute stance underscores their intention to keep their private lives and official duties separate.
This gesture has earned them some criticism over the years, as Spaniards insist on knowing more about the family that rules their country.