Princess Leonor marks 20 years on path to the throne

Princess Leonor, is ringing in her 20th birthday on October 31st and she’s stepping firmly into her royal destiny. 

The eldest daughter of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia has spent the past year proving she’s more than ready for the crown, balancing her studies, state duties, and even a stint at sea.

Yes, the Princess of Asturias isn’t just waving from balconies, she’s been sailing across the Atlantic aboard the Juan Sebastián de Elcano as part of her naval training, and commanding attention at major events like the Princess of Asturias Awards.

When Leonor one day takes the throne, she’ll make history as Spain’s first queen regnant since the 19th century’s Queen Isabella II. 

And she’s already shown the grace and grit for the role just two years ago, on her 18th birthday, Leonor swore allegiance to the Spanish constitution with a promise “to serve all Spaniards with respect and loyalty.”

“There is no greater pride,” she said that day. “I ask you to trust me, as I have placed all my trust in our future in the future of Spain.”

Before she was the poised Princess of Asturias, Leonor was simply Spain’s tiniest royal miracle. 

Felipe couldn’t contain his joy back then, calling the experience “the most beautiful thing that can happen to anyone in life.” 

Beaming with pride, the new dad added, “Seeing your child being born is just amazing. We are radiantly happy.”