Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia have marked their tenth wedding anniversary by releasing two new photos of themselves with their daughters Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia.
Posted on the Spanish royal family's official Twitter account, the pictures show Felipe and Letizia taking their uniform-clad youngsters to school — proving that despite the day's significance, Thursday 22 May is a working day like any other for the modern royal family.
As the couple celebrate the landmark anniversary, HELLO! Online takes a look at how journalist-turned-princess Letizia has evolved since her spectacular royal wedding...
© Photo: FacebookDescribed by commentators as settling into her royal role in a "wonderful way", Princess Letizia has blossomed at her husband's side into a polished and poised future queen of Spain. Ten years ago, the former CNN journalist captured the world's attention as she arrived on the steps of the Cathedral Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena in Madrid, for her and Felipe's wedding. Felipe and Letizia's union drew interest from around the world, given that in the years leading up to the couple's engagement in November 2003, Letizia had become a household name in Spain as a reporter, covering historic events such as the 9/11 attacks in New York and the 2003 Iraq war. Letizia soon found herself making headlines of her own as a future monarch, however. On her big day the royal bride dazzled in an ivory gown with a 15-foot-long train and a sparkling platinum and diamond tiara, which her mother-in-law Queen Sofia wore for her wedding almost exactly 42 years previously.
© Photo: FacebookFelipe and Letizia's nuptials, which were watched by 25 million viewers in Spain alone, came just two months after the country had been targeted by terrorist attacks that left 191 people dead and more than 1,800 wounded. As the country began to heal, the couple dedicated their union to the victims and shortly after the wedding ceremony they paid their respects at a church close to Atocha station which had been hit hard by the devastating attacks.
Letizia's compassion and conduct during the difficult time won her many supporters. Described by royal supporters as a "breath of fresh air" to the Spanish monarchy, Letizia soon won praise for her professional achievements and modern approach to being a princess, opting to do some of her own shopping at the supermarket and wearing high street fashion brands such as Zara and Mango.
Ten years later, the princess' royal role is more prominent than ever and she, along with Felipe, has helped maintain admiration for the Spanish royal family. Letizia has shown her commitment to public service by supporting many charities. Her patronages include campaigns for children's health and rights, encouraging reading and expanding education. Since marrying Felipe, the princess has formed a close bond with his mother Queen Sofia and their warm relationship was clear to see at a memorial service for Letizia’s sister, Érika Ortiz Rocasolano, who passed away in 2007.
In October 2005 the couple welcomed their first child Princess Leonor, who was followed by Princess Sofia in April 2007. Letizia and Felipe are often spotted taking their daughters to school before undertaking their daily duties, with the day of their wedding anniversary being no exception.
As the modern royal couple mark their special day, many look on with excitement to see what the future holds for the future king and queen of Spain.
