Happy 18th birthday to the amazing Leonor de Borbón y Ortiz, Princess of Asturias, October 31st 2005 ❤️🤍
♡︎ Words fail to describe how I feel about this royal. She has stolen my heart in more ways than anyone could imagine. I can still remember when she made her first speech, it hasn’t been that long has it? How has this cute little girl grown into this amazing young woman so quickly? Why is time so cruel? She grew up right in front of our noses in the blink of an eye and I can’t wait to see her become the future Queen of Spain, Viva España, Viva Leonor ♡︎
Hi, happy new year! When it comes to heirs to the throne, who do you think is being better prepared? And what do you think of Leonor’s preparation so far?
Happy New Year to you as well! I'll be honest, I am quite tired so this reply may not be very good, but I tried. I liked this one though. Thanks for asking!
When it comes to heirs to the throne, who do you think is being better prepared?
It is kind of hard to argue which teenage heir is more prepared because each monarchy and country is different, which impacts how each royal family operates. While the Spanish monarchy isn't on its last legs as some believe, they cannot afford easily avoidable controversies (re: the Dutch vacationing in Greece during COVID) nor would pictures of Leonor or Sofía carrying a luxury brand bag be well received by the Spanish public.
Each heir has different expectations depending on their country. Amalia doesn't need to enter the military because there's no link between the monarch and the military in the Netherlands, but this is seen as the standard for many monarchies (because of the monarch's role of the military). Also, if the country is typically in favor of their monarchy (re: Norway) then there is also less stress for perfection at a younger age. So because of this it is hard to fully compare until possibly each heir is more "established."
That being said... I think if you asked each of the teenage heirs about duty, service and leadership, one of the better answers would come from Leonor.
And what do you think of Leonor’s preparation so far?
Felipe and Letizia have done a wonderful job adjusting Leonor to being a public figure. Though, her circumstances are also different! She bears the name of two foundations that give her an opportunity to hone in some communicative and leadership skills.
They have also done little things, such as utilizing their vacations to highlight local communities, since the girls were young to show the girls who they're serving (plus I'm sure having the fam there helps bring in some new visitors for the places!).
Some thought Leonor's military training plan was extensive, but it makes sense considering the close ties between not only the monarch and the military, but Spain and its Armed Forces.
Leonor may not be ready per se to become Queen right this second, but she surely is becoming a trusted leader in her own right. Before you know it, she'll be just like Felipe and Letizia with a packed agenda!
Wow, 2023 really was such a big year for Leonor and Sofía! I didn’t realise how many times we saw them until you did that summary. Hoping they both continue to grow in their roles in 2024.
They were seen the most this year for sure! I’m not sure how much we will see Sofía in 2024, but I am assuming we will see Leonor decently with military related events.
But overall what an awesome 2023 for them!! Each girls had such big milestones this year 🥺 A special year for both of them for sure.