Queen Sofia is going through a difficult time due to the serious deterioration of her sister Irina of Greece’s (Irene de Grecia) health. This situation has forced her to break a long-standing tradition and forgo her usual summer holiday at the Marivent Palace (Palacio de Marivent) in Mallorca, a tradition she had maintained for over fifty years.
Her recent visit to the Balearic Islands was brief and strictly ceremonial. Queen Sofia attended a reception for representatives of civil society, but observers noted that she appeared tired and had lost weight. This whirlwind visit only confirmed the belief that her attention is now entirely focused on events at the Madrid residence, the Zarzuela Palace (Palacio de la Zarzuela), where she remains constantly by her sister’s side.
The health of Irina of Greece, affectionately known at court as “tía Pecu”, apparently does not allow her to travel. While there is no official information from the Royal Household, the atmosphere at Zarzuela Palace is described as tense. Around-the-clock medical supervision has been arranged for the queen’s sister, and nurses and doctors have been brought in. There are also reports of the presence of both Orthodox and Catholic clergy.
During this difficult time, Queen Sofía is being supported by her daughters. Infantas Elena and Cristina are reportedly taking turns visiting Zarzuela to spend time with their mother and assist her. Meanwhile, King Felipe VI is also on Mallorca, combining vacation with official duties; in particular, he plans to visit areas affected by wildfires.
According to some royal observers, Queen Sofía’s emotional and physical state is a cause for concern. In addition to worrying about her sister, she is facing pressure from other upcoming events. Notably, the Princess of Asturias Awards (Premios Princesa de Asturias) ceremony may be difficult for her to attend. Another source of stress is the upcoming publication of new memoirs by her husband, honorary King Juan Carlos I, which could once again bring painful topics about his personal life back into the media spotlight.
