There has always been a special bond between the Spanish and Belgian crowns, largely thanks to Queen Fabiola, a Madrid native who was greatly beloved in Belgium. This historical connection is recalled every time the Spanish monarchs visit. This time, Queen Mathilde chose to highlight it in an especially elegant way, appearing in public wearing pearl earrings that once belonged to Fabiola. She completed her look with a striking scarlet coat-dress, creating a bold contrast.
The current visit of the royal couple to Brussels is their first in ten years and is timed to coincide with a significant event—the thirtieth edition of the ‘Europalia’ arts festival, which in 2025 will focus on Spain. This mission to promote national cultural heritage seems perfectly suited to Queen Letizia, renowned for her engagement with the arts. The festival’s program is impressive: the central event is an exhibition of Francisco de Goya, featuring around seventy of his works in dialogue with pieces by other Spanish masters, including Picasso and Antonio Saura. But ‘Europalia’ is not just about painting. More than a hundred events are planned across eighty Belgian cities, covering theater, dance, film, and literature.
The formal luncheon took place at the Royal Palace in Brussels. It was there, during the public reception preceding the meal, that the most talked-about events unfolded. Despite the meticulously planned protocol, there were still a few surprises. A slight but for royals inexcusable delay by the Spanish couple became the first breach of etiquette. As it turned out, the reason was a simple traffic jam, which slowed the motorcade down even with a police escort. The Belgian monarchs had to wait for their guests for a whole four minutes. This incident, however, only gave local commentators another reason to lament Brussels’s transport problems, which are considered some of the worst in Europe.
Perhaps seeking to smooth over the awkwardness, King Felipe displayed all his charm. His broad smile as he entered the palace and his gallant gesture toward Queen Mathilde did not go unnoticed. Instead of the customary welcome kisses, the Spanish monarch charmingly kissed her hand—a gesture more often seen in movies these days than in real life, and one he performed with impeccable grace.
Queen Mathilde, in turn, demonstrated her confidence and a modern approach to etiquette. She opted for heels so high that she ended up several centimeters taller than King Felipe. This seemingly minor fashion choice speaks volumes: in the Belgian royal family, there is no room for insecurities about height. It is further evidence that Philippe and Mathilde, despite their reserved nature, are not afraid to break conventions from time to time, whether it’s the queen’s participation in public runs or the king responding to citizens’ questions on YouTube.
