Queen Sofia of Spain, always known for her composure and discretion, has once again been in the spotlight at a particularly delicate moment.
While the international media continues to reveal details about the controversial audios between Juan Carlos I and Barbara Rey, the emeritus has preferred to stay out of the spotlight, although her name has been mentioned on several occasions.
Despite the tension surrounding her, Queen Sofia has once again shown her mettle, appearing at an official event this week with the serenity that characterizes her. But not only was her presence notable, so was a jewel laden with history and controversy.
The queen wears Francisco Franco’s brooch
During her attendance at the ceremony commemorating the 19th anniversary of the Military Emergency Unit (UME), held at the Torrejón Air Base, Doña Sofía opted for a sober two-piece ensemble in black.
However, what really caught the eye was a special brooch that adorned her outfit. It is a jewel that Francisco Franco gave her in 1968 on the occasion of the birth of his son, the then Prince Felipe.
This piece, made by the French jeweler Pierre Sterlé, has a cabochon-cut sapphire surrounded by diamonds, with details in yellow gold and coral.
Queen Sofia has shown great appreciation for this brooch, wearing it on numerous occasions over the years, including at such high-profile events as the wedding of Prince Hussein of Jordan in 2023.
This brooch is not only significant for its personal value to the queen, but also for the controversy surrounding it.
In 2013, an identical piece was auctioned, although Casa Real denied that it belonged to Sofía. The story of this jewel, however, continues to attract public attention, especially in times of high visibility such as the present.
Despite the rumors and the scandal, Queen Sofia continues to fulfill her official agenda. Next Tuesday she will be present at the presentation of the Social Awards of the Mapfre Foundation at the Casino of Madrid, where the Infanta Elena is also expected to attend.
On Friday she will preside over the premiere of a work that won the Queen Sofia Prize for Musical Composition, reaffirming her commitment to public life despite the personal circumstances surrounding her.