Following their intense state visit to China, the King and Queen have returned home to a busy schedule that begins immediately.
Felipe VI resumed his duties with a special event in Zaragoza, where he accompanied the XLV class of the General Military Academy on the anniversary of their flag-raising ceremony. Meanwhile, Queen Letizia is using these days to reorganize her schedule before returning to public life, which she will do just in time for one of her most symbolic events of the year: the Francisco Cerecedo Journalism Awards.
Are Leonor and Sofia returning to Madrid?
Next week, the King and Queen will be attending different events: Felipe will visit the Navy’s historical archive, and Letizia will participate in an event on data and social development organized by the BBVA Microfinance Foundation. But the real focus—and never more so—shifts to the weekend. This is why Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia are returning to Madrid: to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the Spanish monarchy.
It’s a historic and highly symbolic moment, so it’s no surprise that the two sisters are returning home to be with their parents at the Royal Palace.
What role will the King and Queen’s daughters play in this celebration?
Leonor and Sofía will accompany their parents to an event where several prominent figures will be awarded the Order of the Golden Fleece. The Royal Family will then proceed to Congress to participate in an event reviewing the Crown’s role in the democratic transition.
The presence of the two young women on such a significant agenda reinforces the message of continuity that the Royal Household often seeks to convey. For them, it’s also an opportunity to experience a chapter of the country’s recent history firsthand.
Will there be a family reunion with King Juan Carlos?
Although the King Emeritus will not attend the official events, a private lunch has been confirmed at El Pardo, where he will meet with Felipe, Letizia, Leonor, and Sofía.
The meeting comes shortly after the publication of his memoirs, in which he candidly admits to regretting not having built a closer relationship with his two granddaughters. He revealed that he would have liked to share more everyday moments with them.