Zarzuela: a site with security and privacy issues
The phrase ‘Zarzuela is not a hotel’ has been etched in the minds of all the new palace residents. King Felipe VI is tired of the attitude of many of them and has had to take measures to restore order. Casa Real dissociated itself from the Bourbons ten years ago, at least publicly, and since then there has not been a picture together. In the acts in which they have agreed, like the funeral of Constantine of Greece, they have always separated from them, going one step ahead or sitting on other benches. In addition, Princesses Leonor and Sofia have been banned from attending these events to prevent them from appearing in photographs with Juan Carlos or the rest of the family. This situation has generated increasing tension in Zarzuela.
The presence of external people in Zarzuela
The Bourbons are endangering the safety and privacy of the Royal House. For a few months now, Irene and Miguel Urdangarin have temporarily settled in the palace, living with Queen Sofia and Irene of Greece. This has led to almost daily visits from the children Elena and Cristina, as well as Victoria Federica. Because of this, Zarzuela has become a place of constant upheaval, with people coming and going at all hours, even early in the morning. This situation has tired the current kings, since the security of the compound must be vigilant 24 hours a day to avoid the presence of outsiders who could leak information about Zarzuela. Now everything entering the house has to go through an ID check and search, and cell phones are confiscated at the entrance. Afterwards, an official person accompanies the visitors to the palace.
The decision of Felipe VI
Felipe VI has made a clear decision: from the end of July, he does not want anyone else to enter Zarzuela. In recent weeks, Juan Urquijo and Olympia, the couples of Irene and Miguel Urdangarin, as well as other young people from the group of friends, have been seen entering. The king has already informed them that he does not want any more visits. From now on, if they want to see their partners or friends, they will have to go to the center of Madrid, since they are not welcome in Zarzuela. This decision also affects Infanta Cristina’s children, who will no longer be able to live with expenses paid in Zarzuela. In addition, Felipe VI has announced that his official vacation will begin at the end of July and that he will leave with his family in Palma de Mallorca. During this time, he does not want anyone to enter Zarzuela, not even the Balearic Island. They will all have to find their lives while Queen Sofia and Irene leave the Madrid palace.