Rescue workers and officials welcomed the King. Some anti-monarchy activists and pacifists, upset about Spain’s export of military weapons, protested his arrival.
The King has made it a point to visit Barcelona several times since the attack. His presence as a symbol of unity is particularly important amid pro-independence rumblings in the Autonomous Community of Catalonia.
Terrorism is nothing new in Spain and members of the Royal Family. The country has dealt with Basque separatists in the past and the 2004 Madrid train bombings.
The Royals hold their public meetings at Almudaina Palace, an old Arab fort that became a Spanish royal residence.
Almudaina Palace
However, they have long stayed at Marivent Palace, which belongs to local authorities but is set aside for the family’s use.
Queen Sofia, who spends the most time in Mallorca, often with get grandchildren, is devoted to the place.
It’s unclear how King Felipe and Queen Letizia see Marivent and Mallorca, but continue the tradition, including an annual photo shoot and press meet-and-greet.
Several royals went out to dinner out on the town. King Juan Carlos, however, was spotted in Ireland and is unlikely to stop in Mallorca.
