Spain’s Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía took part in the reading of Don Quixote last evening from Zarzuela Palace in Madrid.
The daughters of King Felipe and Queen Letizia took part in the traditional reading of Don Quixote in celebration of Book Day. The royals read part of the first chapter in a video that was streamed on the Casa Real Twitter and YouTube accounts.
Each year, the Círculo de Bellas Artes organises the reading of Don Quixote, and as the country is in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the King and Queen were happy to allow their daughters to take part in the reading this year.
Don Quixote is one of the most important works in Spanish literature.
After the reading had concluded, Casa Real released a short video message from Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía where they thank those who are on the frontlines in the battle against the coronavirus.
After the sisters said hello, Leonor said: “We have been, like millions of children, more than a month at home and unable to go to school because of this pandemic, trying to continue with life in the best possible way.“
Sofía then continued: “You don’t have to be older to realise the enormous difficulty we are experiencing in Spain and in other countries.“
Leonor then spoke again: “Many children have lost their grandparents, the elderly, family members and are having a very hard time,” before Sofía stated, “And for that, we also want to thank all the people who are helping and caring for others in so many ways.“
To conclude, Princess Leonor remarked: “You are all important. Thank you. We send you a hug with all our love.“
Her sister then finished the message: “I hope all this ends soon.”
This marked the first time Infanta Sofía, 12, has given a public reading and spoken in public. Princess Leonor, 14, gave her first public reading on her 13th birthday in 2018 when she read part of the Spanish constitution. The Princess of Asturias – the title Leonor holds as heir to the Spanish throne – also spoke at two awards ceremonies last year.
The Infanta will celebrate her 13th birthday on 29 April.
