Queen Letizia is one of the most admired royals in the world. She is known for her intelligence, style, and dedication to public service. Before becoming queen, she was a successful journalist and news anchor. Today, she works closely with her husband, King Felipe VI, in serving Spain and representing the country internationally.
In this blog, we will explore her life story, career, family, and her role as Queen of Spain.
Early Life of Queen Letizia
Queen Letizia was born Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano on 15 September 1972 in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain. She grew up in a middle-class family.
Her father, Jesús José Ortiz Álvarez, was a journalist. Her mother, María de la Paloma Rocasolano Rodríguez, worked as a nurse. Letizia is the eldest of three daughters. Sadly, her younger sister Érika passed away in 2007.
Her grandparents came from different backgrounds. Her maternal grandmother was of Filipino-Spanish descent, while her maternal grandfather worked as a cab driver. Her paternal grandmother, Menchu Álvarez del Valle, was a well-known radio broadcaster in Asturias.
This diverse family background gave Letizia a strong sense of culture and hard work.
Education and Career
Queen Letizia always loved learning and storytelling. She studied at La Gesta School and later at Ramiro de Maeztu High School in Madrid.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the Complutense University of Madrid. She also completed a master’s degree in audiovisual journalism.
During her studies, Letizia worked for newspapers like La Nueva España, ABC, and the news agency EFE. She even spent some time in Mexico, working for the paper Siglo 21.
Later, she worked for Bloomberg TV, CNN+, and Spanish national television TVE. She became one of Spain’s most respected news anchors.
As a journalist, Letizia reported on major global events. She covered the 2000 U.S. elections, reported from Ground Zero after 9/11, and covered the Iraq war in 2003. She also reported on the oil spill disaster in Galicia.
Her sharp reporting and professionalism made her a household name in Spain.
First Marriage
In 1998, Letizia married her former high school teacher, Alonso Guerrero Pérez. The marriage lasted only one year. They divorced in 1999.
Meeting Prince Felipe
In 2002, Letizia met Prince Felipe of Asturias, heir to the Spanish throne. Their relationship was kept private at first.
In November 2003, their engagement was announced. Felipe proposed with a diamond ring, and Letizia gave him sapphire cufflinks in return.
Their wedding took place on 22 May 2004 in Madrid’s Almudena Cathedral. It was the first royal wedding in the cathedral and a major national event.
Her bridal gown was designed by Manuel Pertegaz, one of Spain’s most famous fashion designers.
Family Life
Queen Letizia and King Felipe have two daughters:
- Leonor, Princess of Asturias, born in 2005. She is the heir to the throne.
- Infanta Sofía, born in 2007.
The family lives at the Zarzuela Palace near Madrid. Queen Letizia is very protective of her daughters’ privacy but also prepares them for future royal roles.
Role as Princess of Asturias
Before becoming queen, Letizia served as Princess of Asturias. She supported her husband in national and international duties.
She also began to focus on social causes. She worked on children’s rights, education, health issues, and rare diseases.
In 2010, she became the honorary president of the Spanish Association Against Cancer.
Becoming Queen of Spain
In June 2014, King Juan Carlos I abdicated in favor of his son Felipe. On 19 June 2014, Felipe became King Felipe VI. That same day, Letizia became Queen Letizia of Spain.
She is the first Spanish-born queen consort since 1878 and the first to come from a commoner background.
Duties as Queen Letizia
As queen, Letizia does not have constitutional powers. However, she plays a key public role.
She represents Spain at home and abroad. She supports charities, attends cultural events, and speaks at international conferences.
Letizia has been active in promoting education, health, children’s rights, and nutrition. In 2015, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) named her Special Ambassador for Nutrition.
She also works with organizations that fight against rare diseases, social exclusion, and domestic violence.
Style and Public Image
Queen Letizia is often praised for her elegant fashion sense. She supports Spanish designers and promotes sustainable fashion.
She is also admired for her discipline, fitness, and healthy lifestyle. In 2022, it was reported that she suffered from foot conditions but continues her royal work without slowing down.
Her background as a journalist makes her an excellent public speaker. She often delivers powerful speeches on social and humanitarian issues.
Queen Letizia in Recent Years
In 2023, Queen Letizia gained international attention when she awarded the Spanish women’s national football team after their World Cup victory in Australia.
In 2024, she and King Felipe faced a difficult moment when they visited flood victims in Valencia. Some angry residents confronted them, but the Queen stayed calm and listened to their concerns. This strengthened her image as a queen close to the people.
She continues to balance royal duties with family life, especially guiding her daughter Leonor, who will one day be queen.
Legacy of Queen Letizia
Queen Letizia has transformed the role of queen consort in Spain. She shows that royalty can be modern, hardworking, and socially aware.
Her journey from journalist to queen inspires many around the world. She proves that dedication, education, and compassion can take anyone to great heights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Queen Letizia?
Queen Letizia is the wife of King Felipe VI of Spain. She became queen in 2014.
2. What was Queen Letizia’s job before marriage?
She worked as a journalist and TV news anchor.
3. How many children does Queen Letizia have?
She has two daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía.
4. When did Queen Letizia marry King Felipe VI?
They married on 22 May 2004 in Madrid.
5. What causes does Queen Letizia support?
She focuses on health, education, children’s rights, and global nutrition.
Conclusion
Queen Letizia is more than just a royal figure. She is a woman of intelligence, resilience, and service. From journalism to royalty, her journey is remarkable.
Today, she continues to represent Spain with dignity and compassion. Whether at international events or meeting ordinary citizens, she shows grace and responsibility.
Queen Letizia is not only the Queen of Spain but also a symbol of modern monarchy. She inspires people worldwide through her work, her words, and her dedication to public good.
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