Spanish royals mark Spain’s National Day

The Spanish Royal Family united in Madrid to mark Spain’s National Day on 12 October.

King Felipe and Queen Letizia were joined by both their daughters, who are currently studying at university. The Princess of Asturias is a student at the Charles III University of Madrid, while Infanta Sofía is in her second year at Forward College in Paris, France.

As is tradition, the Royal Family presided over the military parade and solemn ceremony honouring the Spanish flag. They received ceremonial honours from a battalion of the Royal Guard, and the King then reviewed the troops alongside the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Chief of the Military Household and the Chief of the Honour Guard.

King Felipe, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía viewed the flag ceremony and military parade from the Royal Tribune. The Spanish flag was raised as the national anthem played before tribute was paid to those who have given their lives for Spain. Guidons and wreath bearers from the military laid flowers at the base of the flag. The King and Princess of Asturias then laid a wreath in memory of the heroes.

A prayer, the playing of “Taps” and a flyover then took place before the royals greeted those who took part in the parade.

Later, the Royal Family hosted a reception at the Royal Palace’s Throne Room for 1,000 guests from the government, foreign ambassadors, the judiciary and legislative branch, and multilateral organisations. Winners of various awards in research, science, industry, and culture were also in attendance.

Spain’s National Day (Fiesta Nacional de España) takes place annually on 12 October.