In a show of solidarity and concern for the family, Their Majesties King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia went to the Ruber International Hospital in Madrid to visit Queen Emérita Sofía.
King Felipe’s mother is recovering from a urinary tract infection.
The visit, which took place on Thursday, April 11, reflects the Royal Family’s continued support for the matriarch, who is in her second day of hospitalization.
Upon leaving the medical center, King Felipe VI delivered a message of reassurance to the nation.
The father of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia assured that Queen Sofia was “doing well.”
He expressed his wish that the recovery process be respected, without speculating on the moment of her medical discharge.
Queen Letizia and King Felipe visit Queen Sofia
For about an hour, Letizia and Felipe stayed by the side of the Queen Emeritus, demonstrating the unity and affection that prevails in the royal family.
This gesture is a repetition of the previous day’s visit, when the King, in a rare act, stopped to speak to the media and give an update on the health of his mother, Queen Sofia, 85.
Today, with a hopeful tone, the King said from his vehicle, with Queen Letizia at his side, that his mother was eager to get back to normal, maintaining the same positive mood as the day before.
“She’s fine, she’s fine. Same as yesterday, eager to get out,” the king said.
Faced with questions about the exact date of the medical discharge, the King maintained a cautious stance, without giving specific details and asking for “calm”.
The Royal House did not provide any further information on the condition of the Queen Emeritus today, after announcing yesterday that her recovery was “very fast and positive”.
Queen Sofia’s illness
Queen Sofia’s hospitalization on Tuesday night marks a rare event in her medical history.
It is the first recorded hospitalization outside the birth of her children, King Felipe VI and Elena and Cristina.
The discretion with which the situation has been handled reflects the respect for the privacy and dignity of the Queen Emeritus, a value that the Spanish Royal Family continues to uphold.
What is the relationship between Queen Letizia and Queen Sofia?
The relationship between Queen Letizia and her mother-in-law, Queen Emeritus Sofia, has been the subject of public scrutiny and media speculation since Letizia joined the royal family.
Although the two have maintained a semblance of cordiality at most public events, there have been times when tensions have surfaced, revealing the complexity of their family dynamic.
One of the most notorious incidents occurred at the exit of Easter Mass in 2018, when a moment of friction between the two queens was captured.
Queen Sofia tried to pose for a photo with her granddaughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, but Queen Letizia intervened, leading to an awkward exchange that was widely reported and commented on.
The episode highlighted the differences between the two and sparked a debate about power dynamics and respect within the royal family.
Despite these differences, there have also been signs of reconciliation and efforts to present a united front.
Subsequent public appearances have shown the queens sharing friendly moments, suggesting a mutual understanding of the importance of maintaining the monarchy’s image.
The relationship between Letizia and Sofia is undoubtedly complex.
On the one hand, it reflects the inherent challenge of any mother-in-law-daughter-in-law relationship, magnified by the intense focus of public life.
On the other hand, it also highlights the ability of both to overcome differences and work together for the good of the institution they represent.
Ultimately, the relationship between Queen Letizia and Queen Emeritus Sofia is a testament to human nature and diplomacy at the highest level of society.
Although they have had their challenges, they continue to play their roles with the dignity and grace expected of them, proving that even in royalty, family can be both a refuge and a battleground.