Queen Sofia is about to receive a very special recognition, and not just any: it is the Collar of the Insigne Orden del Order of the Golden Fleece, one of the most outstanding awards granted by the monarchy.
This honor will be presented by her son, King Felipe VI, in a symbolic act that seeks to highlight “her dedication and devotion to the service of Spain and the Crown,” as communicated in the Official State Gazette on January 10.
Queen Sofia to receive the Golden Fleece
The decision to grant this distinction came by means of a decree dated October 29, 2024, and it is expressed:
“Wishing to give testimony of my royal appreciation to Her Majesty Queen Sofia and to publicly recognize her dedication and devotion to the service of Spain and the Crown.”
However, the announcement was delayed due to the floods in Spain that we here at RoyalFamily.news reported.
King Felipe VI is expected to present her with the Golden Fleece in a ceremony solemnly dedicated to her more than 60 years of service to the Royal House and the State.
Despite the controversies surrounding her husband, King Juan Carlos, and the leaks of private conversations, Queen Sofia has maintained her commitment and professionalism in numerous institutional activities.
This recognition also aims to reinforce her image, especially after her mention in recent scandals.
What is the Golden Fleece?
This order of knighthood, one of the most prestigious in Europe, was founded in 1429 by Duke Felipe of Burgundy and has been intimately linked to the Spanish monarchy over the centuries.
Only the monarch in office can bestow this distinction. The Collar of the Golden Fleece is extremely exclusive; currently, only 16 people hold it, and a new appointment is only granted when one of the current holders dies.
It should be recalled that the last time Felipe VI gave this Insignia of a Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece of Spain was in 2018 to Princess Leonor, when she was 13 years old, this being the first act of decoration since he assumed the crown in 2014.
With this new award, Queen Sofia strengthens her already impressive list of decorations, which includes the Grand Cross and the Collar of the Order of Charles III.