The Spanish Royal Family has released their Christmas card featuring a never-before-seen family portrait, marking a departure from their previous tradition.
King Felipe, 56, and Queen Letizia, 52, are pictured alongside their daughters Princess Leonor, 19, and Infanta Sofia, 17, in the intimate photograph.
The image, which has not been previously shared with the public, captures the royals following the Solemn Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony in June, an event that commemorated the 10th anniversary of King Felipe’s accession to the throne.
Queen Letizia appears elegant in a satin aqua blue dress, with her arm placed affectionately around Princess Leonor, who wears a striking red trouser suit.
The Spanish Royal Family has released their Christmas card featuring a never-before-seen family portrait
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King Felipe dons a navy suit paired with a patterned tie, beaming at the camera whilst resting his hand on his youngest daughter Sofia’s arm.
Infanta Sofia completes the family ensemble in a navy patterned jumpsuit.
The formal portrait was taken during a significant moment for the Spanish monarchy, as it marked the beginning of celebrations for King Felipe’s decade on the throne.
The Christmas card includes a heartfelt message in Spanish, which translates to: “Merry Christmas, and may we all face the New Year with greater confidence.” All four members of the royal family have signed the card.
The formal portrait was taken during a significant moment for the Spanish monarchy, as it marked the beginning of celebrations for King Felipe’s tenth year on the throne
Casa de Su Majestad el Rey
The card also features a poignant tribute to those affected by October’s devastating floods in Valencia, which claimed 230 lives and impacted over 800,000 people.
A poem by Francisco Brines, a Valencian poet, is included, reading: “And I seek a face that reflects light, someone who, like me, though only holding death, also holds, as I once did, defying it, life.”
The Spanish royal family traditionally celebrates the festive season at Zarzuela Palace in Madrid, where they gather for dinner on Christmas Eve with King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia.
King Felipe and Queen Letizia are among several royal households to release their seasonal greetings this year.
The card also features a poignant tribute to those affected by October’s devastating floods in Valencia, which claimed 230 lives and impacted over 800,000 people
Casa de Su Majestad el Rey
Belgium’s King Philippe, 64, and Queen Mathilde, 51, have shared what is described as a glamorous family portrait for their Christmas card.
King Charles, 77, and Queen Camilla, 78, have also unveiled their festive card, featuring a photograph taken in spring.
In addition, Princess Anne, 74, released her annual Christmas card, which was shared by the Reliant Motor Club, of which she is an honorary member.
Although not official working royals, Prince Harry, 40, and Meghan Markle, 43, shared a never before seen image of Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three.
