An Emblematic Space
The Zarzuela Residence is an emblematic place that houses both a State institution, the Crown, and a family home, that of the Bourbons. For many years, it was the home of Kings Juan Carlos and Sofia, along with their three children. However, as the infantas became independent, Elena moved to a luxurious apartment in Madrid and Cristina settled in Pedralbes. Thus, the emeritus and Felipe were left alone in Zarzuela. Later, Letizia joined and the couple settled in the Prince’s Pavilion, a palace near the main building.
Changes in the Royal Family
With the birth of the girls, Leonor and Sofía, Zarzuela once again became a family home. However, now the two girls are gone: Leonor has joined the Army and Sofía has decided to study in Wales. In addition, Juan Carlos was expelled from Zarzuela by his son Felipe when it was discovered that he had undeclared money in tax havens. Since then, only four members of the family have resided in Zarzuela: Felipe, Letizia, Queen Sofía and her sister Irene, affectionately known as Tía Pecu, who unfortunately suffers from Alzheimer’s. Although Irene is not part of the Royal Family, her presence in Zarzuela allows other members of the family, who are also not part of the Royal Family, to live there occasionally.
A Family Tradition
Over the years, Zarzuela has witnessed the presence of other family members who are not from the Royal Family. For example, Elena’s youngest daughter, Victoria de Marichalar, used to sleep in Zarzuela to avoid conflicts with her mother when she returned late from a party. Under the excuse of visiting her grandmother Sofía, Victoria became another tenant of Zarzuela. This situation was also repeated with Irene Urdangarin, who decided to settle in Madrid after abandoning her studies in Switzerland. Although her stay in Zarzuela was temporary, Miguel Urdangarin, Cristina’s youngest son, has found a place to live in the residence while he takes a ski instructor course in Geneva.
A Welcome Space
Semana magazine reports that Zarzuela has taken in several family members who are not part of the Royal Family. Although the residence is not a hotel, an exception has been made for Cristina’s children, who can now reside there. This situation has been possible thanks to Urdangarin’s divorce, which has allowed her children to enjoy the residence as if it were a luxury hotel and for free. Although Zarzuela remains the seat of the Crown, it has also become a family gathering place for those members who are not of the Royal Family but who are welcome at the residence.
