The Zarzuela Residence
Zarzuela is the official headquarters of a State Institution, the Crown, but it is also a family residence. Since the approval of the Constitution in 1978, the Head of State has been granted to one person and his successors. Only members of the Spanish Royal Family, known as the Bourbons, live in the Zarzuela Palace. It is important to note that the residence has hosted different members of royalty over the years.
The Spanish Royal Family
The Spanish Royal Family is made up of the members closest to the Head of State. In the past, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia, as well as their children, Infantas Elena and Cristina, have resided at Zarzuela. However, currently, only Queen Sofia continues to live in the residence. It is important to mention that Queen Sofia is of Greek origin and has royal blood, as she was a Greek princess before marrying King Juan Carlos.
Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano
Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano is the current queen consort of Spain and the only commoner who has lived in Zarzuela during the 46 years of democracy. Her marriage to King Philip VI came as a surprise to some, as the king was expected to choose a European princess or aristocrat as the future queen. However, Letizia has proven her worth and has played her role with dedication and commitment.
Classism and Rumors
Over the years, there have been rumors and classist comments about Letizia Ortiz. Some have tried to belittle her because of her plebeian origin, using derogatory terms such as ‘la Ortiz’. There has even been talk of clashes between Letizia and some of her sisters-in-law, although it is not specifically mentioned who she is referring to. These rumors and classist comments are unfair and do not reflect the reality of Queen Letizia.
Letizia’s Language
There has been talk about the language used by Letizia within Zarzuela. According to some reports, Letizia used to use swear words like ‘jolines’, ‘coño’ and ‘hostias’. However, it is said that one of her sisters-in-law asked him to tone down her language. It is important to highlight that the use of this type of language is considered inappropriate in the high nobility environment of Zarzuela, both in public and in private.
Current Life in Zarzuela
Currently, Queen Sofia is the only member of the Spanish Royal Family who lives in Zarzuela. The other members of royalty have been transferred out of the Zarzuela core. It is important to note that Queen Sofia does not speak Spanish fluently and, if she uses swear words, they would be in Greek and no one would understand them. Life in Zarzuela continues as normal, maintaining its importance as the official and family residence of the Spanish Royal Family.