Queen Sophia wore a gold pocket watch given to her by her late sister Princess Irene at a reception at Marivent Palace in Mallorca. The mother of King Felipe arrived at the event accompanied by her son, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofia, with her family staying by her side.
The pocket watch hangs from a gold chain and bears an inscription on the back dated December 24, 2002. Signed by Princess Irene as a Christmas gift to her older sister, the message expresses eternal love and thanks to Sophia. Queen Sophia had previously worn the timepiece in public only once since Irene's death, during her 40-day memorial service.
Royal Vacations in Mallorca
This year marks Queen Sophia's first summer stay at Marivent Palace without her sister. For decades, Princess Irene was a constant presence during the Spanish royal family's summer holidays in the Balearic Islands.
The sisters spent time together away from official duties, taking walks across Mallorca, attending cultural events, and keeping their routine out of the public spotlight. Last year, Queen Sophia shortened her stay at Marivent to remain close to Princess Irene as her health deteriorated.
