The death of Irene of Greece (Irene de Grecia) became an event that once again brought together the royal houses of Spain and Greece. In Athens, where the farewell ceremony will take place on January 19, 2026, representatives of both dynasties will gather. However, amid the general mourning, the absence of one of her closest people—King Emeritus Juan Carlos—stands out. His decision not to travel to Greece has raised many questions and sparked considerable discussion.
The late Princess Irene passed away at the La Zarzuela palace in Madrid (La Zarzuela) at the age of 83. Her passing was a blow to the whole family, as she had long remained a link between the Spanish and Greek branches of the monarchies. In Athens, an official ceremony will be held at the Cathedral, after which Irene’s remains will be laid to rest in Tatoi (Tatoi) next to her parents and brother, the last King of Greece, Constantine.
Family circle
Nearly all major figures from both royal families are expected to attend the funeral. King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Queen Sofia, Infantas Elena and Cristina—all have confirmed their participation. For many, this is not only a farewell to a relative but also a rare chance to gather together, despite differences and distances.
However, the absence of Juan Carlos casts a shadow over the family idyll. His relationship with Irene has always been special: he called her his sister, and she supported him through the most difficult times. Nevertheless, this time the king father will remain in Abu Dhabi, where he has lived for the past few years. The reason is not only his age, but also his health, which does not allow him to endure a seven-hour flight there and back in one day.
Doctors say no
Medical recommendations proved decisive. Doctors strongly advise Juan Carlos against putting himself at risk: he has a pacemaker, and his heart has long required special care. Even a short trip could have serious consequences, let alone a flight to Athens. The family, despite their wish to have him close, is forced to accept this decision.
Interestingly, the king father will be unable to attend not only the funeral in Greece, but also the memorial ceremony in Madrid two days earlier. This decision was not easy for him, as he has always tried to be with his loved ones at such moments. But this time, health outweighed tradition and personal feelings.
Two countries — one loss
The farewell to Irene is taking place in two countries at once. Mourning halls have been opened in Madrid and Athens, where all those wishing to pay their respects to the princess can do so. For the Spanish royal family, this is more than just a formality: Irene was an integral part of their lives, even though she officially belonged to another house.
In Greece, she was seen as the last representative of the old dynasty, the guardian of traditions and family secrets. Her passing marks the end of an era, which is why the ceremony in Athens promises to be especially moving. Yet the absence of Juan Carlos is likely to become the most talked-about moment of these days.
A fine line
The king father’s decision not to attend the funeral is not just a medical recommendation. It is also a reminder of the fragility of human life, even when it comes to monarchs. The family is forced to adapt to new rules, where age and health dictate their terms and tradition steps aside.
Still, for many Spaniards and Greeks, this gesture has become a symbol of change. Royal houses no longer hide their vulnerabilities but speak openly about their struggles. Perhaps real dignity lies precisely in this—in the ability to acknowledge your limitations and not defy fate.
