A great deal of concern has arisen in the Palacio de la Zarzuela in recent months regarding Queen Sofía. The anxiety over the emeritus queen is palpable, and everyone is aware of the delicate situation she is going through. The reason for her sadness is the worsening condition her sister, Irene of Greece, has experienced in recent weeks.
For several days, those living with her have noticed a significant change in the mood of King Felipe's mother. This has been caused mainly by the physical and cognitive decline Princess Irene is suffering. The bond between the two has always been exceptionally strong, which makes this stage a painful ordeal for Queen Sofía.
Queen Sofía raises alarms at Palacio de la Zarzuela
The concern in Palacio de la Zarzuela over Queen Sofía's condition has intensified in recent days. Irene of Greece's fragile health has become more distressing, and everyone in the palace is prepared for the inevitable outcome. Despite her recent public appearances, her decline is evident, and she has been living secluded in Zarzuela for some time now.
Queen Sofía remains by her side, making sure not to leave her. In fact, she has significantly reduced her official schedule so she won't be far from her sister. Her greatest fear is not being with her when what no one can prevent finally happens.
Irene has faced various health problems in recent years, and her current condition has caused great concern among her loved ones. Queen Sofía keeps up with her sister's health developments, which has deeply affected the emeritus queen's spirits.
This, in turn, has caused anxiety in Palacio de la Zarzuela, where they fear for Felipe's mother's situation. Given the close connection she has with Irene, seeing her with diminished abilities has taken a toll on her. Doctors are attending to Irene with the utmost diligence, but they can no longer do anything to improve her health.
At 82 years old (82 años), she appears increasingly frail, with reduced mobility and a vacant expression that worries those close to her in Zarzuela. Casa Real keeps total discretion, but sources close to the family say the emeritus queen's spirits are visibly damaged by this situation.
Palacio de la Zarzuela doesn't neglect Queen Sofía
Queen Sofía has changed her personal schedule, canceling official commitments so she can stay in Zarzuela and spend more time caring for Irene. This gesture shows the gravity of the moment, since Sofía has always been very disciplined in her public role.
Felipe, aware of the emotional burden on his mother, has increased his private visits to Zarzuela to offer her more frequent support and companionship. Sources close to the family state that in the palace "they are aware" of what is coming and, for that reason, they don't neglect Queen Sofía.
Even in the hallways, there is already talk that Irene would like to rest in Greece, next to her brother Constantino. Preparations are reportedly already underway, increasing the emeritus queen's anxiety.
Being separated from her sister will mean breaking an emotional bond built over more than five decades living together under the same roof. Irene is not just her sister, but her confidante, her emotional anchor, and her last intimate link to her childhood and Hellenic roots.
Sources close to the family say the emeritus queen has aged noticeably in just a few months, affected by accumulated sadness and the strain of this situation. The atmosphere in Zarzuela has become more subdued, with an air of respect and quiet care. All of this is a sign of consideration for Queen Sofía's delicate situation.