A farewell ceremony for Irene, the younger sister of Queen Sofía, was held today in the capital of Greece. The service was marked by an atmosphere of deep respect and family unity. Despite recent health challenges, Irene fulfilled her final wish—to be buried in her homeland, next to her parents and brother. Representatives of two royal dynasties gathered in Athens on this day to honor the memory of a woman who remained in the shadows for many years, yet was always a support for her loved ones.
From early morning, relatives, friends, and representatives of European monarchies began to gather outside the cathedral in the city center. The Greek flag draped over the coffin became a symbol of the princess’s return home. Inside, the atmosphere was unique; every gesture and word carried special meaning. The Spanish delegation arrived almost in full, despite the absence of King Juan Carlos I. However, his absence did not overshadow the significance of the moment—for the first time in many years, the entire family was together again.
Family ties
Among those present were Queen Sofía, King Felipe VI with Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, Infanta Sofía, as well as Infantas Elena and Cristina. They were joined by Victoria Federica, Pablo, Miguel, and Juan Urdangarin. For many, this day was an occasion to recall family traditions and long-forgotten reunions; such unity had not taken place for over ten years, since the days of summer holidays in Mallorca.
The Greek royal family was also present in full. Queen Anne-Marie, her five children, and grandchildren took their seats in the front rows. On this day, there was no place for discord—only support and mutual respect. During the Orthodox service, emotions overwhelmed many. Queen Sofía could not hold back her tears, and her daughter Leonor and King Felipe held her hands, supporting her in this difficult moment. Letizia, seated nearby, comfortingly took her mother-in-law’s hand, showing that at such moments, all differences fall into the background.
Farewell moments
After the service, the coffin with Irene’s body was carried out of the cathedral. At that moment, all eyes were on Victoria Federica and Irene Urdangarin, who, along with their cousin Aristides, carried cushions with the princess’s honors. This scene was among the most moving of the day: the younger generation of royal families bidding farewell to their relative with dignity and respect.
The procession then made its way to the royal cemetery in Tatoi—the place where Irene spent her childhood. Here, among cypresses and old headstones, she found her rest beside her family. After the funeral, the family planned to gather at a shared table to remember their loved one and support each other, as is Greek tradition. However, King Felipe and Queen Letizia had to leave Athens early—a railway tragedy in Córdoba required their presence in Spain.
Emotions and symbols
The farewell to Irena was not only a tribute to her memory but also a symbol of unity between the two royal households. Shared glances, embraces, tears, and words of support all created an atmosphere where past and present were intertwined. For many in attendance, this day served as a reminder that even the most influential families are not immune to the pain of loss and the need to stand together.
Particular attention was drawn to moments when Queen Sofía, despite maintaining a composed exterior, could not hide her emotions. Reporters captured her wiping away tears, supported by her daughter and son at her side. These images have already circulated through European media, becoming a symbol of genuine feeling and family unity.
RUSSPAIN reminds that Princess Irene of Greece was the youngest daughter of King Paul and Queen Frederica, and the sister of Queen Sofía and King Constantine II. She was known for her modesty, devotion to family, and active charitable work. In recent years, Irene lived in Spain, remaining a close friend and support for Queen Sofía. Her passing became a significant event for both royal families and resonated widely across European society.
