Away from the public spotlight, Princess Leonor (20) and Infanta Sofía (19) are currently enjoying their summer vacation on Mallorca. But even during their private time off, the security of the two daughters of King Felipe VI (58) and Queen Letizia (53) remains paramount - though with an unusual strategy: The best security measures should remain as invisible as possible.
As every year, the Spanish Royal Family is spending their summer break on the Mediterranean island. At the Marivent Palace, the two young princesses can spend time with their family and enjoy some relaxing days. However, when Leonor and Sofía leave the estate for private outings, a special security concept comes into play.
How the princesses stay discreet and safe on vacation
Spanish protocol and etiquette expert María José Gómez Verdú told the magazine "Lecturas" that the sisters' outings are primarily about enabling them to experience normality.
"The key is not to organize 'special' outings, but precisely to ensure they don't appear as such", the expert explained. The activities are therefore carefully planned in advance by the security team. This involves selecting locations where the princesses' privacy can be protected without drawing attention.
The success of the concept lies in the fact that "everything remains completely unnoticed". Instead of conspicuous security measures, the team relies on discretion, advance planning, and confidentiality.
Princesses' friends play important role
To enable Leonor and Sofía to experience carefree moments with peers, their personal circle is also an important part of the security concept. The friends of both must adhere to certain rules and not share private information with outsiders.
According to Gómez Verdú, the strategy is based on "foresight, confidentiality, and respect for boundaries", which are also accepted by the people in the princesses' circle. This allows the sisters to spend time with friends without constantly being in the public eye.
For young members of a royal family in particular, this normality is especially important. The measure not only ensures their security, but also enables them to build their own experiences and relationships outside their royal role.
Bodyguards should remain as inconspicuous as possible
When selecting personal protection officers, care is also taken to ensure they are not immediately recognized as security personnel. Younger staff members are therefore frequently deployed, who can visually appear more like friends or acquaintances of the princesses.
"When protecting the Royal Family, one principle is very clear: The best security is the one you don't notice", according to Gómez Verdú.
For Leonor and Sofía, this means they can at least temporarily lead a life similar to that of other young people - including meetings with friends, outings, and private moments without every step being publicly observed.
Summer on Mallorca, then new life chapters
How long Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía will actually remain on Mallorca is largely kept secret by the Spanish court. Traditionally, however, the Royal Family spends several weeks of their summer break at the Marivent Palace on the island. In addition to shared days with King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and grandmother Queen Sofía (87), official appointments are also part of the vacation program. These include the traditional reception for representatives of the Balearic Islands at the Marivent Palace as well as other public appearances by the family.
After the family time on Mallorca, major changes await the two sisters. Princess Leonor will begin her studies in political science at Carlos III University in Madrid in September. After her several years of military training, the heir to the throne will thus return more strongly to student life.
A new chapter also begins for Infanta Sofía. She is continuing her studies in political science and international relations at Forward College. After stints in Lisbon, she will continue in Paris.
