From the palace to the place d’armes: for this reason, the daughter of the King of Spain was sent to the army

Princess Leonor, 17, swaps flower girl dresses for khaki-colored military clothes. The monarchs daughter, after completing her education at a Welsh college, is expected to serve three years – she will first take a course at the academy and then serve a year aboard the barque Juan Sebastian de Elcano, and attend the “Young Fighter Course” at the Main Air Force Academy.

Why does the princess not go to a European university, but to the service? It’s all in the tradition. Leonor, as the eldest daughter, is the heiress to the Spanish throne and the future queen of Spain, and all monarchs are required to receive a military education – her father and grandfather followed this path.

“As in all parliamentary monarchies, the heir to the throne must have military training and a career in the army,” Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles commented on the information.

Service, of course, can be a test for a 17-year-old girl, but Leonor is already used to discipline and independence. Indeed, in Wales, she lived in an ordinary student hostel, like all students, and enjoyed no privileges. In addition, Leonor has long been independently involved in various events, fulfilling her royal duties.

Read also: Members of the royal family are required to carry such clothing on any trip, even on vacation.