Leonor de Borbón has marked a milestone with her trip to Portugal, being her first official departure abroad as heir to the throne of Spain. Although, before embarking on this important trip, she confessed to her parents that she felt “a little nervous”.
Upon landing in Lisbon, the Princess of Asturias was warmly received by Portuguese President Rebelo de Sousa, who personally greeted her at the airport.
This gesture symbolized the close relationship between Portugal and the Spanish Royal House.
Princess Leonor Visits Portugal
The Princess’s first stop was the emblematic Jerónimos Monastery, where she paid tribute to the poet Luis de Camões by laying a wreath at his tomb.
This act, usually reserved for heads of state, underlined the importance of her visit.
Accompanied by a squadron of cavalry, Leonor arrived at the Belém Palace, where she was decorated with the band of the Grand Cross of the Order of Christ by Rebelo de Sousa, one of Portugal’s highest distinctions.
Nerves and illusion
Sources close to the Zarzuela revealed to the Spanish portal Monarquía Confidencial, that Princess Leonor was nervous and excited before her first solo trip abroad.
The uncertainty of the unknown affected her, but she was also full of excitement for the experience.
“Leonor is very aware of her role and plays it perfectly, although she is still very young and afraid of disappointing. But this has never happened,” Palace sources commented. “Her parents fully trust her for her charisma and the dedication with which she faces her new life. In addition, the affection of the citizens gives her a lot of confidence”, they added.
A key figure for the Crown
Leonor has become a key figure for the Spanish Crown. Her presence at recent events and the interest she arouses among young people, especially because of her military training, are helping to tighten the connection between the monarchy and the citizenry.
“Queen Letizia is usually very attentive that Leonor does not make mistakes and always stands out,” shared from her close environment.
A memorable speech in Portuguese
During the official banquet, Princess Leonor highlighted the special relationship between Portugal and Spain in her speech:
“Portugal and Spain share a neighborliness that goes far beyond mere geographical proximity; it is a neighborliness that encompasses many dimensions, and which translates into a sincere friendship and a deep and mutual respect between our two countries.”
To culminate her speech, Leonor surprised everyone by offering a toast in Portuguese: “Quero fazer um brinde a estas magníficas relações, a Vossa Excelência, querido Presidente Rebelo de Sousa, e ao querido povo português, que tanto estimo. Cheers.”
With this visit, Princess Leonor demonstrated her ability to represent the monarchy with determination, even in moments of nervousness.