Photo: The Spanish Royal House
Leonor in officer's uniform for the first time on the National Day
For the past three years Princess Leonor wore the uniform of whichever military academy she was attending. This year she stood beside her father as a fully trained officer at the military parade in Madrid.
King Felipe and Queen Letizia led the celebration of Spain's National Day in Madrid on Monday, together with Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía.
For the Princess, the day was a milestone. For the past three years she took part in the uniform of whichever military academy she was attending at the time. This year she turned up with her training completed, and for the first time as an officer.
She wore the Army uniform, while the King wore that of the Air Force. Leonor has three years at the academies of the three services behind her, one year at each.
The parade
The military parade followed the Paseo del Prado and the Paseo de Recoletos, from the Glorieta Emperador Carlos V roundabout to the Plaza de Colón. More than 4,300 personnel took part.
As every year, the fallen were honoured. The plinth at the memorial reads "Honour and glory to those who gave their lives for Spain".
Reception at the palace
After the parade the royal couple hosted the traditional reception at the Royal Palace in Madrid. Around a thousand guests were expected.
Spain's National Day on 12 October marks the day Christopher Columbus landed in the Americas in 1492, and is also known as the Día de la Hispanidad.
Princess Leonor is the heir to the throne and turns 21 on 31 October. Infanta Sofía is 19.