Like any devoted mother, Queen Letizia of Spain is clearly feeling the absence of her daughter, Princess Leonor, as the young royal continues her military service away from home.
In a touching tribute, the Queen has ensured her eldest daughter remains close in spirit by placing a meaningful photograph within the Zarzuela Palace.
During an audience on Thursday with a representative from the Consejo Asesor del Cerebro (Brain Advisory Council), Queen Letizia hosted the meeting in a room of the palace not previously seen by the public, according to Vanitatis.
The space, smaller and more personal than the usual royal salons, featured a framed photo capturing a defining moment in Princess Leonor’s life.
The image shows the young princess on her 18th birthday, 31 October 2023, as she took the oath to uphold the Spanish Constitution in her role as Princess of Asturias.
Standing beside her, Queen Letizia is seen applauding proudly—an emotional moment that now takes pride of place in the royal residence.
Leonor’s Military Commitment
Princess Leonor, now 19, began her military training in January, embarking on a rigorous six-month program as part of her broader three-year commitment. To mark the occasion, the royal family attended a formal send-off in Cádiz.
Queen Letizia looked elegant in a tailored blue jacket, King Felipe VI donned a traditional navy uniform, and Leonor stood tall in her own military attire.
The send-off was a poignant one, especially for the Queen, who openly acknowledged the emotional toll of the separation.
“It will be many months without seeing her,” Letizia said. King Felipe echoed her sentiments, expressing both pride and a hint of sadness: “With sadness and with hope, it will be very good for her.”
Princess Leonor’s training places her among the most dedicated of Europe’s young royals. Her commitment goes beyond what is typically required, surpassing even that of Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway.
As Leonor continues to forge her path, her mother’s subtle but heartfelt tribute is a reminder of the deep bond between mother and daughter, and the quiet strength behind the Spanish monarchy.
