The awarding of the Order of the Golden Fleece to Queen Mother Sofía sparked widespread discussion centered on two key points. First, both queens—the reigning and the honorary—appeared in public wearing the same dusty pink shade. Second, a rather awkward greeting from former minister Javier Solana to King Felipe VI’s mother raised eyebrows. Finally, the day that had been announced back in January arrived: Queen Sofía was officially invested into the Order of the Golden Fleece, receiving the insignia that marks her as a member of Spain’s most prestigious order of knighthood. This is an exceptional honor granted by the monarch, and for the first time in history, it was bestowed upon a queen consort. It is safe to assume this won’t be the last time: in the future, Princess Leonor may well grant this same honor to her mother, Queen Letizia.
The ceremony, which began at 10:30 a.m. at the Royal Theater, provided several intriguing details that, as often happens, became fodder for all kinds of interpretations. The first thing that stood out as the royal family entered the Hall of Columns was the sheer seriousness on Queen Letizia’s face throughout the ceremony.
Double pink: coincidence or a secret message?
Some commentators who have covered the life of the Bourbon dynasty for decades suggested that Letizia’s stern expression was a reaction to Queen Sofia choosing to wear the exact same color. Why did both queens decide to appear in identical shades? Theories vary. It is well known that royals, limited in their ability to express themselves publicly, often use clothing as a way to convey certain messages.
One theory suggests that Letizia did it intentionally to support her mother-in-law and let her be the center of attention for the day. However, there is also an opposing view. According to this version, Letizia was unaware of Queen Sofia’s outfit choice. It would seem logical that, on such a significant day, their stylists would coordinate these details. Therefore, when Letizia saw her mother-in-law, she was unpleasantly surprised.
Other royal chroniclers believe it was a planned gesture, demonstrating warm relations between the two queens. Supporting this idea were the affectionate gestures they exchanged at the end of the ceremony. Proponents of this theory argue that the choice of pink was no coincidence: Sofia wore pink when Juan Carlos was proclaimed king in 1975. Thus, it could have been a direct signal to the honorary king, who reportedly spoke unfavorably of his daughter-in-law in his memoirs, accusing her of dividing the family. With this gesture, Queen Sofia seemed to say: “I have no issues with Letizia.”
Awkward moment: the former minister’s overly exuberant joy
At least one member of the royal family couldn’t hide their surprise—and even alarm—at the scene unfolding nearby. This happened during a brief greeting ceremony following the awarding of the order. In addition to Queen Sofía, former Prime Minister Felipe González and two of the ‘fathers’ of the Constitution also received the honor. Guests and officials were given the chance to personally congratulate members of the royal family.
It was Infanta Sofía who, with a look of horror on her face, watched former minister and ex-NATO Secretary General Javier Solana congratulate her grandmother. He grabbed the 87-year-old queen’s hands tightly and, apparently carried away by a rush of euphoria, shook them vigorously for several long seconds. The Infanta kept a close eye to see if her grandmother might need help, her face clearly showing a desire to step in and stop this overly familiar greeting.
Two celebrations: official and family
The ceremony itself couldn’t last long, as at 12:30 another important event began in the Congress of Deputies, dedicated to the role of the monarchy in Spain’s transition to democracy. Attendees included King Felipe, Queen Letizia, and their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía. At the same time, in the Zarzuela Palace, Queen Sofía hosted a private cocktail party to celebrate receiving the order in a more intimate circle.
Those who were unable to attend the Royal Palace were invited to this reception. If anyone wondered about the absence of Infanta Elena, Infanta Cristina, and their children from the official events, the explanation is simple: protocol does not provide for inviting other members of the king’s family to official ceremonies. However, they—including Victoria Federica and Irene Urdangarin—were present at the private reception hosted by the Queen Mother. Notably, honorary King Juan Carlos and his grandson Felipe Juan Froilán did not appear at the family gathering.
Notably, Queen Letizia, born Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, was a well-known and highly successful journalist and TV presenter before marrying Crown Prince Felipe. Her media career, which included work for CNN+ and Televisión Española, made her a familiar face across Spain long before she joined the royal family. After her 2004 wedding, she had to adjust to the strict protocols of the monarchy—a challenge for an independent, modern woman. While often hailed as a style icon, Letizia has also faced criticism for her reserved demeanor and perceived coldness. She is actively involved in public work, focusing on health, education, and culture. Letizia has come to symbolize the modernization of Spain’s monarchy, bringing it a fresh, professional image. Her relationship with the “old guard,” particularly King Juan Carlos I, has always attracted close media scrutiny. Today, together with King Felipe VI, she is raising their two daughters—Princess Leonor, the heir to the throne, and Infanta Sofía—preparing them for their future roles in the country.
