Queen Letizia with a serious expression in the foreground, a wildfire on a hillside in the background, and two overlapping speech bubbles.

The striking gesture by Queen Letizia during the Orense wildfires that everyone is talking about

During her visit to those affected by the fires, the queen was involved in a moment that has not gone unnoticed

Queen Letizia has once again captured everyone's attention during her tour of the areas affected by the fires in Ourense. Her warm attitude and a much-discussed gesture have sparked a wave of reactions among local residents and the media.

In an emotional day, Queen Letizia accompanied Felipe VI on his visit to the areas most affected by the fires in Ourense. However, it was a specific action that has caused both surprise and admiration.

A group of firefighters, police officers, and emergency personnel pose together inside an industrial building.
Letizia and Felipe VI show their support on the front lines to local authorities and operational teams | Europa Press

Royal support in a wounded land

The kings of Spain have increased their presence in the communities affected by the recent wildfires in the north of the country. This Thursday, the visit took place in the town of Verín in Ourense, one of the municipalities that has experienced the consequences of the fire most intensely.

The first stop was the Coordination Center of Forest District XIV, where Felipe VI and Doña Letizia received detailed information about the situation. In the control room, they greeted mayors of the affected towns and met with representatives of the emergency teams.

The day had a strong institutional component, but also an emotional one. The kings showed an empathetic attitude, paying attention to each individual story and expressing gratitude for the efforts of those who worked tirelessly during the emergency.

A group of people, including authorities and emergency personnel, are talking inside a building with vehicles in the background.
Letizia shows interest in the emotional state of the children at Medeiros School | Europa Press

A tour marked by warmth

After the visit to the coordination center, the monarchs traveled to the town of Cualedro, where they learned firsthand about the impact of the fire on agricultural and livestock operations. The conversation with owners and residents was filled with humanity.

During their stop in Monterrei, Doña Letizia once again showed her sensitivity toward the youngest. At the Medeiros public school, she was especially interested in the boys and girls who have experienced moments of great uncertainty and fear.

The royal presence has been met with enthusiasm by the residents, who have valued the gesture as a sign of commitment. "You can tell they really care," commented a local woman after shaking the queen's hand.

A man greets a group of people who are behind a yellow fence while several children sit on the ground in front of him.
The Queen takes the floor to highlight the hardship experienced by the residents | Europa Press

The gesture that has left no one indifferent

The most talked-about moment of the visit came during a meeting with residents affected by the fire. While King Felipe VI was speaking, Queen Letizia interrupted him spontaneously and with visible emotion, addressing the residents directly.

With sincere words, she wanted to highlight the real suffering of the residents: "Only you know what you've been through. People who haven't been there don't know," she said, leaving the room in silence for a few seconds.

A group of people, including several wildland firefighters in yellow uniforms, are talking and smiling in an informal setting.
Letizia breaks protocol in Ourense with a sincere and spontaneous gesture | Europa Press

With these words, the queen wanted to show her support for the residents, many of whom have seen their homes destroyed by the fire. She asked for understanding regarding the emotional hardship of those who have experienced this tragedy firsthand. She also took the opportunity to acknowledge the work of the firefighters, highlighting their dedication, courage, and key role in containing the fires.

The gesture, unusual in official events, was received with respect and emotion. Many interpreted it as a genuine display of empathy, far from protocol and focused on recognizing the pain experienced by the community.