Royals Host IOC Reps

Queen Sofia, Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia and Infanta Elena welcomed International Olympic Committee representatives at the Royal Palace last week.

They were hoping to impress the Evaluation Commission for Madrid’s candidacy to host the games in 2020.

© Casa de S.M. el Rey / Borja Fotógrafos

Prince Felipe said in the Palace’s main dining hall that Madrid was not only a European City but also represented broader Ibero-American aspirations.

More than 100 guests attended the event, the Royal Household said. Infanta Pilar, the King’s sister, was also there.

Prince, Princess Greet New Pope

Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia headed the Spanish delegation to Pope Francis’ inaugural mass today.

The Prince and Princess of Asturias sat with other European and world Royals during the ceremony in Vatican City.

Princess Letizia wore black because by protocol only Catholic Monarchs can wear white.

Queen Sofia wore white to the same event for now former Pope Benedict.

Anarchist Group Targets Crown

Police found an explosive device this week in a government office in Madrid, El País reported.

Infanta Elena hands out awards to youth leaders this week. © Casa de S.M. el Rey / Borja Fotógrafos — Infanta Elena hands out awards to youth leaders this week.
© Casa de S.M. el Rey / Borja Fotógrafos

The newspaper reported that authorities have connected the explosive to another one found near the Royal Palace in February.

They blamed an anarchist group, which says it aims to target sites important to the “Bourbon Monarchy.” It pays homage to Mateo Morral, who tried to kill King Alfonso XIII and Queen Victoria Eugenia.

Prince At Chavez Funeral

Prince Felipe arrived in Caracas, Venezuela today to lead the Spanish delegation to the funeral of President Hugo Chavez.

Prince Felipe sat near controversial figures during today’s events, including the President of Iran.

Several years ago, King Juan Carlos made news by telling Chavez to shut up during a conference. Both countries have worked to make amends.

Fire Strikes Clinic Where King Is Staying

Emergency workers reported an explosion and small fire in the clinic where King Juan Carlos is staying after a hernia operation.

The Royal Household said the incident this morning did not affect the King and ruled out any move.

Asked about his father’s condition, Prince Felipe said the King was doing well, media outlets reported.

Prince Felipe visiting an expansion project for the Madrid Metro, one of the world's largest. — Prince Felipe visiting an expansion project for the Madrid Metro, one of the world’s largest.

Also of interest, workers for Patrimonio Nacional, the agency that manages royal palaces and sites, are going on strike. However, the walkout should not affect the King’s staff at Zarzuela Palace.

And Spanish lawmakers are asking intelligence agency leaders about statements from King’s close German friend Corinna zu Sayn Wittgenstein that she helped the country in sensitive missions.

Royal Gathering

Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia spent part of the weekend in The Netherlands with the heirs to other European thrones.

Present were the future monarchs of Belgium, Norway, Denmark, Luxembourg and Sweden.

King’s Operation A Success

King Juan Carlos is out of intensive care and has already taken his first steps after a hernia operation.

© Agencia EFE. Posted online by the Royal Household.

His Majesty went to La Milagrosa hospital in Madrid for the scheduled operation.

Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia. © Agencia EFE. Posted online by the Royal Household. — Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia.
© Agencia EFE. Posted online by the Royal Household.

Several members of the Royal Family have made their way to visit Don Juan Carlos at the hospital. So has Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy.

The King is expected to be in the hospital for about a week, but will spend a few more in recovery.