In a move that breaks with tradition, Spain’s Royal Household has unveiled a series of intimate photographs featuring King Felipe, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofia.
These photographs, previously unseen by the public, have sparked considerable interest among royal enthusiasts and the media alike, who are more accustomed to the family’s typical reserve.
The release of these photographs is in celebration of King Felipe and Queen Letizia’s twentieth wedding anniversary—a milestone that merits such a noteworthy acknowledgment.
A total of eleven photographs have been released, all captured by the skilled photographers of His Majesty the King’s Household.
Unpublished photos of Spain’s royal family
The images provide a rare glimpse into the private life of the royal family, timed perfectly to align with the significance of the anniversary.
The royal couple’s nuptials, held on May 22, 2004, at the grand Almudena Cathedral in Madrid, were a grand affair attended by over 1,200 guests, including dignitaries and royals from across the globe.
Two decades on, the evolution of King Felipe and Queen Letizia’s relationship is evident; they appear stronger and more united than ever.
While their actual anniversary falls on May 22, the Royal Household has chosen to commence the festivities early by sharing these extraordinary photographs with the public.
King Felipe and Queen Letizia’s anniversary photos
The selection of the Royal Palace of Madrid as the backdrop for these photos is a deliberate and symbolic choice, blending the personal joy of the anniversary with the royal family’s institutional role.
The setting, steeped in the history of the Bourbon dynasty, underscores the couple’s desire to integrate their personal lives with their public duties.
The photographs send a powerful message about the Royal Family’s current dynamic: a couple that stands together, supported by their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, showcasing a united front that extends beyond mere romantic celebration.
When the photos were taken
The photo session took place on Monday, May 6, as indicated by Queen Letizia’s attire, which she also wore to the “EmociónArte” concert at the Teatro Real in Madrid on the same day.
Meeting of Infanta Sofia and Princess Leonor
Both Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia made special trips to join the session, taking time from their studies in Zaragoza and Wales, respectively.
King Felipe, too, adjusted his commitments to ensure his presence, returning from an official visit to the General Air Academy in San Javier. The timing of the shoot, likely in the afternoon, was chosen to make the most of the natural daylight.
Relaxed royal family
The photographs stand out for their candid and relaxed nature. The royal family, dressed casually, exudes a sense of ease and spontaneity. The princesses, Leonor and Sofia, display a genuine sisterly bond, full of joy and complicity.
In a touching display, Queen Letizia is featured in several photos with her daughters, including one where she is playfully embraced.
King Felipe and Queen Letizia have intentionally allowed their daughters to take center stage in these images, signifying that their anniversary is a celebration of family as much as it is of their union.
These exclusive photographs are a heartfelt offering to the people of Spain and to all who hold the royal family dear, providing an authentic and personal look at a momentous occasion.
Through this gesture, the Royal House of Spain has invited us into their world, marking not just two decades of marriage but also the enduring strength and unity of a family that continues to grow and adapt in an ever-changing world.