Princess Leonor, the heir presumptive to the Spanish throne, is steadily stepping into the public eye, preparing for her future role as Queen of Spain. Born on October 31, 2005, she is the elder daughter of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia. Her official title is Princess of Asturias.
Leonor’s early life was carefully managed, balancing royal duties with a normal upbringing. She attended Santa María de los Rosales School in Madrid, the same school her father attended. In 2021, she embarked on a significant chapter in her education, enrolling at UWC Atlantic College in Wales, a prestigious international boarding school. This experience exposed her to a diverse student body and a rigorous academic curriculum, designed to foster critical thinking and global citizenship.
Her military training, which began in August 2023, signifies a crucial step in her preparation to become Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. She is undergoing three years of training across all branches: the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. Her time at the General Military Academy in Zaragoza marked the initial phase, followed by naval training aboard the Juan Sebastián de Elcano training ship, and concluding with studies at the General Air Academy.
Leonor’s public appearances are becoming more frequent and prominent, showcasing her growing confidence and engagement. She delivered her first public speech in 2018, demonstrating poise and eloquence at a young age. She has since participated in various official events, including visits to cultural institutions, attending award ceremonies, and engaging with youth organizations. Her presence often brings a fresh perspective to traditional royal events, signalling a modernization of the monarchy.
The Princess of Asturias is not only focused on her education and military training but also on mastering languages. She is fluent in Spanish and English, and is also studying Galician and Catalan, two of Spain’s co-official languages. This linguistic proficiency allows her to connect with a broader range of citizens across the diverse regions of Spain.
As she matures, Leonor’s role will continue to evolve. Her dedication to her education, coupled with her exposure to international perspectives and rigorous military training, is preparing her to meet the challenges and responsibilities that come with leading a modern European monarchy. She is viewed as a symbol of continuity and stability for Spain, and her actions are closely watched by both the Spanish public and international observers.