Queen Sofía is experiencing a period of personal reflection marked by the passage of time and her sister's health, Princess Irene. At 85 years old, and with an increasingly calm routine, Felipe VI's mother values peace more than activity.
In previous summers, Doña Sofía was already settled in Palma de Mallorca by this time of year. Her belongings were moved to Marivent in mid-July, and she and her sister would welcome various members of the royal family there. This year, however, things have changed.
Princess Irene, her usual companion, is very weak and hardly leaves the house. In addition, family visits are becoming increasingly rare and less frequent. That situation has led Sofía to seriously consider canceling the vacation on the island.
A decision marked by health and loneliness
Sources close to her say she even told those around her that she wouldn't travel to Mallorca. She felt the situation wasn't sustainable, especially with her sister in such delicate health. Queen Sofía preferred to stay in Madrid, surrounded by tranquility and without having to move.
She herself explained that she felt very lonely, and that Irene's condition didn't allow her to face the trip with peace of mind. For many elderly people, that desire for calm and stability is natural, and Doña Sofía is no exception. For now, she hadn't set any specific date for travel and Marivent's doors remain closed so far.
However, her children, especially Infantas Elena and Cristina, managed to convince her. They promised they'd visit her at Marivent and spend time with her. That promise, together with the desire to keep certain family traditions, has made her reconsider her decision.
Unusual vacation with a reduced schedule
The trip is now planned, although without a set date. The idea is for both sisters to settle in Marivent, but with a very light schedule. Doña Sofía will have a limited agenda, focused mainly on life inside the palace, since Irene of Greece will hardly go out.
Although Irene can travel perfectly well, her physical condition makes her prefer not to move too much. Before, she always walked a few steps behind her sister, following protocol and showing her closeness. Now, she prefers to stay home and rest.
In recent public events, Irene has avoided accompanying Sofía, even at gatherings she never used to miss. The only thing both want to keep is the traditional family dinner at a restaurant in Palma. It's one of the most special moments of the summer for the emeritus queen.
A shared but different summer
Infantas Elena and Cristina have set aside several days to accompany their mother at Marivent. In addition, they'll try not to coincide with King Felipe VI, so Doña Sofía is always accompanied. The family is trying to organize themselves to prevent Queen Sofía from spending too much time alone with her sister.
Sibling relationships have improved in recent years, especially between Cristina and the king. They already spent time together last summer in Palma without major issues. Although the relationship isn't what it used to be, there is now a cordiality that makes family organization easier.
Some of Infanta Cristina's children are also expected to visit Mallorca, although it hasn't been confirmed who. Meanwhile, Elena's children aren't expected to travel to the island this year. Froilán is in Abu Dhabi, and Victoria prefers to enjoy the summer on her own.
This year, Marivent wasn't on the royal agenda until the last minute. Doubts about whether to travel or not marked the start of the summer for Sofía. But her children's affection and the planned visits have made the emeritus queen regain her desire to get moving... and perhaps to break that pact with loneliness.