During her official visit to Zamora, Queen Letizia surprised everyone by unexpectedly stopping an institutional event to share a few words that weren't on the program. With a serious expression, she interrupted the event to deliver a very personal message after receiving news that deeply affected her.
What was supposed to be a day of support for the victims of the fires ended up being marked by emotion. Amid the pain caused by the environmental tragedy, the royals delivered a message that had nothing to do with the fire, but that deeply resonated with those present.
A visit marked by environmental tragedy
The royals chose Lago de Sanabria as the first stop on a tour of the regions most affected by wildfires. Accompanied by local authorities and environmental technicians, they toured scorched areas, listened to testimonies from residents, and showed their solidarity. The concern for ecological recovery was reflected on their faces.
Letizia didn't hide her impression upon seeing the chestnut groves completely devastated. On more than one occasion, she stopped to talk with locals who described the fear and uncertainty they experienced during the weeks of fire. Meanwhile, Felipe VI asked in detail about reforestation plans and the economic damages suffered by farmers.
The visit, which continued in Las Médulas, took place in an atmosphere of respect and empathy. The royals delivered a message of institutional support, but also a human one, to those who have lost so much in the most destructive fires of the past year in Castilla y León.
The message that moved everyone present
It was in the middle of the event when Queen Letizia interrupted the planned agenda to deliver a few words from the heart. In a low but firm voice, she took the microphone to refer to "sad news that has deeply struck us this morning." The emotion was evident in her tone.
Letizia released the passing of Manuel de la Calva, a member of the legendary musical group Dúo Dinámico. Accompanied by King Felipe, she wanted to send a message of condolence addressed to Ramón Arcusa, his artistic partner and inseparable friend. The telegram, handwritten by both, was later shared on social media.
"Their songs marked several generations and still resonate powerfully today," the royals stated in their message. The farewell ended with an "affectionate embrace" and words of recognition for the duo's artistic career. The gesture was received with respect and applause from those present.
A difficult week for Spanish culture
The loss of Manuel de la Calva hasn't been the only one to shock the country in recent days. This week, the passing of actress Verónica Echegui at 42 years old, and actor Eusebio Poncela, at 77, also became known. The world of culture is going through days of mourning.
The Royal Household has publicly expressed their condolences for these deaths. They have recognized the contribution of these figures to Spanish cinema, music, and art. Felipe and Letizia have shown their closeness to the cultural sector at galas and private visits.
The gesture of the royals in Zamora is yet another example of the role they play as representatives of the collective sentiment of the country. In moments of pain, they seek to approach people, whether in environmental tragedies or personal losses, such as the one that has shaken Dúo Dinámico.