The state visit of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Büdenbender to Madrid was planned down to the minute, yet it’s during such intense official events that the most vivid and human moments often emerge. This reception was no exception, offering several entertaining episodes for those watching. The first noteworthy scene unfolded almost immediately during the official ceremony at the Royal Palace. King Felipe and Queen Letizia, dressed elegantly in winter coats, waited on the red carpet for their German guests to arrive, when the couple stepped out of a chauffeured Rolls-Royce. To everyone’s surprise, both the president and his wife appeared lightly dressed, with no outerwear, despite the chilly Madrid weather.
The reaction from the Spanish royals was instant. Without hesitation, King Felipe removed his coat, which an aide swiftly collected. With a glance or perhaps a quiet word, he signaled to Queen Letizia to do the same. She immediately parted with her iconic Carolina Herrera cape, revealing a stunning red dress underneath. This gesture of solidarity undoubtedly cost her a few moments of discomfort in the morning chill, as the ceremony—including the playing of national anthems, a 21-gun salute, and the Royal Guard’s honor inspection—lasted quite a while.
A Palace Women’s Alliance
Fortunately for the queen, the remainder of the program was held mostly indoors. Yet from the very first moments, it was clear that a special bond had formed between Letizia and Germany’s First Lady. Their interactions brimmed with smiles, warm embraces, and an ongoing exchange of views—a clear sign of mutual affection. This cordial atmosphere continued during their first public outing without their husbands—when they toured the Gallery of Royal Collections together.
Inside this magnificent museum, Queen Letizia and Elke Büdenbender hosted a meeting focused on the status of women in Spain and issues of gender equality. The event brought together prominent Spanish public figures, including FCC board chair Esther Alcocer Koplowitz, Siemens CFO Ana Campon-Alonso, neurobiologist Mara Dierssen, Merck KGaA CEO Belén Garijo, and other influential women from the worlds of business and science. They discussed current challenges and achievements in empowering women.
Royal glamour and an unexpected guest
The highlight of the first day was a gala dinner at the Royal Palace. For this evening, Queen Letizia chose a particularly stunning look—a new, flattering dress and the legendary Cartier tiara. She looked truly regal, exuding remarkable confidence without losing her signature natural charm. It was during this dinner that the night’s most amusing incident occurred.
After the obligatory group photo, just seconds before the traditional greeting of the guests, a dark-haired woman suddenly appeared behind the German president and his wife. King Felipe, maintaining his composure, glanced briefly at the “unexpected guest,” but didn’t react further. Queen Letizia, however, responded differently. She turned around, greeted the woman with a smile, shook her hand, and asked how she was doing. It turned out to be an interpreter whose job was to introduce the Spanish guests to the German couple. In this small moment, the queen once again demonstrated her remarkable attention to people, even to those who usually remain behind the scenes.
By the way, Queen Letizia (née Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano) wasn’t always a member of the royal family. Before marrying then-Prince Felipe, she was a well-known and respected journalist and TV presenter. She worked for major channels like CNN+ and Televisión Española, anchoring the prime-time evening news. Her professional background and confidence in front of the public undoubtedly aid her in her royal duties. Since becoming queen consort in 2014, Letizia has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most stylish royals. But her activities extend far beyond fashion. She is actively involved in healthcare, education, and culture, and serves as a special FAO ambassador for nutrition.
