The events that unfolded in Mallorca at the end of May 2022 are still being discussed in royal circles across Europe. Amid the tranquil Mediterranean scenery, a wedding took place that unexpectedly became a crossroads for the destinies of several royal families. Princess Mette-Marit, already under close scrutiny due to rumors about her connections with controversial figures, arrived on the island accompanied by her three children, but without her husband. This event, carefully hidden from prying eyes, became not only a highlight for society pages, but also the source of new intrigues that have gained particular significance over the years.
At that time, no one could have imagined that four years later Mette-Marit’s name would be associated with a string of scandals and personal trials. Her eldest son found himself at the center of a high-profile court case, while the princess herself was forced to battle a serious illness and defend her right to the throne. Against the backdrop of these dramatic changes, memories of the Mallorca wedding have taken on special meaning—as a symbol of a bygone era and a reminder of how quickly life can change even for the most protected individuals.
That day, the private estate east of Palma hosted not only representatives of the Norwegian royal family. The main star of the ceremony was the singer and Princess Mafalda of Bulgaria, daughter of Prince Kyril and Rosario Nadal. Although her marriage to financier Marc Abousleiman had already been registered in the USA, it was on Mallorca that the couple chose to hold an intimate celebration for their closest friends and family. Among the 150 guests were Infantas Elena and Cristina, as well as members of the Bulgarian royal family led by former Tsar Simeon and Queen Margarita.
Behind the scenes of the royal gathering
The Mallorca wedding stood out not only for its luxury but also for its unprecedented security measures. Entry to the property was strictly limited, and the guest list remained secret until the last moment. The guests included well-known artists, designers, and members of the European aristocracy. Special attention was drawn to Mette-Marit, who arrived with her children—Marius, Ingrid Alexandra, and Sverre Magnus. The absence of Haakon sparked a wave of rumors, but there were no official comments.
The intrigue was heightened by the fact that there had previously been no close ties between the Norwegian and Bulgarian royal families. However, as it turned out, Mette-Marit and Rosario Nadal had a long-standing friendship that began even before Rosario’s divorce from Prince Kiril. Their families often vacationed together in Mallorca, and the princesses were frequently seen together at social events in Oslo and London. This personal relationship explains why the Norwegian crown princess was among the selected guests.
The evening before the wedding was spent in the family circle at Kiril’s estate in Porreres. The following day’s ceremony was marked by restraint and elegance: the bride chose a vintage Valentino dress that belonged to her mother, one of the Italian couturier’s muses. Not all members of the Bulgarian dynasty were invited—Princess Kalina and her husband were left aside, which only fueled interest in the event.
Hidden motives and unexpected alliances
The question of why these particular guests attended the wedding remains a topic of discussion. Neither the infantas nor the Bulgarian royals were invited to Mette-Marit and Haakon’s own wedding in 2001. At that time, Spain was represented by Queen Sofia and Prince Felipe, who appeared in public for the first time with model Eva Sannum at that very reception. Only years later did it become clear that informal connections among the families were far stronger than any official protocols.
Among the guests at the wedding in Mallorca were several other well-known personalities: socialite Olivia Palermo and her husband, singer Alba Reche, photographer Rocío Aguirre and her partner, musician C. Tangana. However, it was the presence of members from three royal families that became the highlight of the evening. Amid an atmosphere of seclusion and luxury, the discussions covered not only family matters but also issues rarely made public.
The wedding of Mafalda and Mark, despite its idyllic appearance, did not mark the beginning of a lasting union. Just two years later, the couple separated but maintained a respectful relationship. The reason cited was distance: the singer lived in Spain, while her husband resided abroad. Today, Mafalda is building her music career and dating designer Miguel Ángel Martín, while her former husband prefers to remain out of the spotlight.
Aftermath for the royal families
The events in Mallorca turned out to be just a prelude to a series of changes that affected everyone who attended that gathering. Mette-Marit and her family faced challenging times: legal proceedings, health issues, and a reassessment of their royal status. Looking back on the Mallorca wedding, many remark that it was then the sense of an end to a carefree era was already in the air.
For the Spanish infantes, taking part in such an exclusive event was an opportunity to strengthen personal ties with European aristocracy. The Bulgarian royal family, despite lacking official status, continues to play a prominent role in the social life of the Old World. As for Mafalda herself, despite setbacks in her personal life, she remains one of the brightest representatives of the new generation of royals.
The 2022 wedding in Mallorca was not only a beautiful society event but also a mirror reflecting hidden alliances, old grievances, and new challenges for European monarchies. Beneath the festive glitter and smiles, tense conversations unfolded, and every gesture and glance took on special meaning for those accustomed to living under the watchful eye of cameras and public expectation.
Princess Mette-Marit of Norway is one of the most talked-about figures in European royal circles in recent years. Her life has been marked not only by high-profile events but also by a series of challenges: from controversial relationships to serious illnesses and family dramas. Despite all hardships, she continues to fulfill her duties and retains her influence within royal circles. Her participation in closed events like the Mallorca wedding only highlights the complexity and layered nature of modern royal life, where the personal and the public are inextricably intertwined.
