King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia and Princess Leonor of Spain attended the National Day celebrations in Madrid today. This was Princess Leonor’s first public engagement since she joined the Navy training in August this year. Infanta Sofia who used to join her parents and elder sister at the event, missed today’s celebrations as she is in Wales for her studies and will be home later this month for Autumn break.
Commonly referred to as the Día de la Hispanida, the National day celebrates Spanish legacy worldwide. The discovery of the Americas by Christopher Columbus on October 12, 1492, marks a significant moment in Spain’s history and its global influence. This date represents not only Spain’s overseas legacy but also its deep connections to the nations of the Americas that were once part of the Spanish Empire, the first global power in history. It serves as a symbol of the shared heritage that links Spain with contemporary American countries.
As per Spanish Constitution, “The date chosen, 12 October, symbolizes the historical anniversary on which Spain, about to conclude a process of State construction based on our cultural and political diversity, and the integration of the kingdoms of Spain into the same monarchy, begins a period of linguistic and cultural projection beyond the boundaries of Europe.”
The Royal agenda of the day is divided into two parts – First a Military Parade at the Neptune Square and then a reception at the Royal Palace.
King Felipe, Queen Letizia and Princess Leonor of Spain arrived at the Neptune Square accompanied by the Royal Escort squad. This year’s celebrations also accommodates King Felipe’s 10th accession anniversary. Felipe ascended to the Spanish throne in May 2014.
After ceremonial welcome and inspection of the troops, The National flag was hoisted. The Spanish President, members of the Government, Opposition, Armed forces and many guests from the Civil society joined the Royal at the event.
King Felipe and Princess Leonor paid a tribute to the fallen heroes who have give their lives during the conflicts and peace efforts. Once again, King Felipe was joined by his heiress for the tribute ceremony. Leonor is enrolled in three year long military training. She finished her first year at the Zaragoza Military academy this summer and in August joined the Marin Naval School (ENM) in Marin, Pontevedra.
Military training is an essential part of the Monarch’s training in Spain as the Spanish Monarch is also the head of all forms of armed forces in the country. Leonor remains one of the very few of her generations who is undertaking a rigorous training.
The Royal Family watched the parade which included presentations from Army Units, the Navy, the Civil Guard, Military Emergency Unit, Royal Guard, State Security Forces and Corps and various Security, Civil Protection and Emergency Agencies.
At the end of the event, The Royal Family once again escorted by the Royal Squad headed back to the Royal Palace for the traditional reception where they received the Government delegates, Military personnel, political and social figureheads, Leonor stood by her mother’s side to receive the guests.
King Felipe and Queen Letizia will resume their regular agenda next week while Princess Leonor will head back to the Navy school this weekend. She will be back in public eye at the end of this month for the annual Princess of Asturias Awards in Oviedo.
What Queen Letizia Wore to 2024 National Day
- Hugo Boss x Caro Daur Relaxed Fit Trench Coat – New ( Thanks toUfoNoMore for the id)
- Poète Pussy Bow Midi Dress – Repeat from March 2023
- Coreterno Ring – Repeat
- Queen Sofia’s Aldao Joyeros Ruby Earrings – Repeat
- Olivia Mareque Olivia Bag – New
- Magrit Clara Pumps – Repeat from September 2024
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