Today’s event was a gesture steeped in history and a symbol of the mother-child bond. Today, I want to share with you how I experienced – even from a distance – the presentation of the Golden Fleece to Queen Sofia, a moment that has already become part of the history of the Spanish monarchy.
Felipe VI wanted the award to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the Crown, and that detail says it all: it was not just another ceremony, but a recognition of a lifetime of service. Watching the king pin the insignia to the red ribbon and then the full collar was almost like a family portrait elevated to an institutional act.
A solemn scene filled with figures
The Royal Palace’s main courtyard first welcomed the three new members of the order—Miquel Roca, Miguel Herrero, and Felipe González—and then Sofia, who arrived punctually in a Mercedes as the Royal Guard played the anthem.
Ingreso en la Insigne Orden del Toisón de Oro de la Reina Sofía, Felipe González, Miguel Herrero y Rodríguez de Miñón y Miquel Roca i Junyent, presidido por los Reyes, acompañados por la Princesa de Asturias y la Infanta Sofía, en el Palacio Real de Madrid. pic.twitter.com/RaeqpBtWra
— Casa de S.M. el Rey (@CasaReal) November 21, 2025
Inside, the highest state authorities awaited the distinguished guests. The scene was carefully choreographed: separate cars for the King and Queen and their daughters, brief greetings, and a direct transition to the Throne Room, where the most traditional protocol awaited.
Royal fashion and a notable coincidence
If there’s one detail I always notice, it’s the choice of attire for these events. Queen Sofia, the Queen Emeritus, opted for a pale pink two-piece outfit by Alejandro de Miguel, adorned with silver rhinestones and jewelry featuring a combination of pearls, diamonds, and rubies.
Interestingly, Letizia also chose pink, but with a Carolina Herrera design in virgin wool, featuring front embroidery and an open skirt.
While the two generations shared a color scheme, the younger women chose their own paths: Leonor wore a red suit and her mother’s rubies, and Infanta Sofía opted for a gray ensemble with more contemporary lines.
A speech that served as an emotional conclusion
King Felipe VI addressed his mother with very clear words, thanking her for her “entire life of exemplary service and loyalty.” He spoke of her closeness and her role in social and cultural affairs, and also recalled Juan Carlos I, who was absent from the official event but present at the family lunch the following day.
Following the speech, the award was presented “for her dedication and commitment to serving Spain,” and the chamber music concluded an event that, beyond protocol, revealed the emotional significance of a decoration not bestowed every day.