Spanish Royal Family Kicks Off Princess of Asturias Awards in Oviedo

The Spanish royal family gathered in Oviedo on Thursday evening to inaugurate the events surrounding the Princess of Asturias Awards. King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofía attended the traditional concert at the Príncipe Felipe Auditorium, marking a rare full family reunion in public view.

The 34th edition of the concert served as the curtain-raiser for the awards week. The musical program featured the Principality of Asturias Symphony Orchestra and the Foundation Choir, directed by conductor Nuno Coelho, alongside sopranos Sylvia Schwartz and Pilar Alva-Martín and tenor Santiago Ballerini. The performance highlighted Felix Mendelssohn's Hymn of Praise.

Queen Letizia drew attention for her choice of attire at the event, debuting an emerald green silk chiffon cape blouse from the newly released Elie Saab for H&M collection. She paired the top with high-waisted black fluid trousers, a matching green clutch, and emerald earrings gifted by Tous for her 50th birthday.

Princess Leonor marked her eighth appearance at the event since her debut in 2019. Alongside her sister Infanta Sofía and her parents, she was greeted warmly by local crowds gathered outside the venue in her mother's native region.

The awards weekend brings several prominent figures to Asturias, including cultural and humanitarian figures such as singer Patti Smith, writer Julian Barnes, and soccer player Leo Messi. The main ceremony takes place at the Campoamor Theater.

The annual gathering in Oviedo frequently revives memories of past milestones for the royal family, including Queen Letizia's early appearances at the awards following her marriage to King Felipe.