Irene’s delicate state of health
Irene of Greece, an emblematic royal figure, is facing a critical stage in her life. A year ago, it was revealed that she suffers from Alzheimer’s, a disease that has begun to leave obvious marks. In her most recent public appearance, the princess was seen in a wheelchair, with a visibly deteriorated appearance and a distant look that suggests a deep forgetfulness. This situation has deeply impacted Queen Sofia, who has shared her life with Irene for more than five decades.
The royal family’s commitment
Faced with this reality, Queen Letizia has decided to implement a daily medical care program for Sofia’s sister, in the hope of slowing the progression of her illness. A team of caregivers has also been assigned to exclusively attend to Irene 24 hours a day, ensuring that she receives the care and attention she needs. Her presence at the Zarzuela Palace has been continuous for half a century, when her initially brief stay became a permanent home.
The story of an illustrious spinster
Throughout her life, Irene has been the subject of much speculation about her love life. Despite the marriage proposals she received, she never committed herself. Her sister Sophie, always attentive to her well-being, has exercised a protective influence, while her mother, Queen Frederica, tried to match her daughters with prestigious nobles. Irene, however, never found her ideal partner in her suitors, such as Maurice of Hesse or Michael of Orleans.
An unrequited romance
One of the names that has always resonated in her life is that of Juan Carlos, who, before marrying Sofia, was considered by many as an option for Irene. Although it has never been officially confirmed, it is said that there was a mutual attraction between them. However, fate led Juan Carlos to her sister, leaving Irene with a broken heart and the title of ‘golden bachelorette’.
A journey towards spirituality
After the fall of the Greek monarchy and the exile of her family, Irene moved to India, where she immersed herself in a spiritual environment. This change in her life allowed her to explore new dimensions of her existence, moving away from the expectations of royalty. Upon returning to Spain, she had the opportunity to meet Gonzalo de Borbón, brother-in-law of Juan Carlos, but her relationship was quickly disapproved by the emeritus king, who feared that her reputation would affect her sister-in-law.
Frustrated love
Even a second romantic interest, former priest Jesús Aguirre, failed to blossom due to Juan Carlos’s intervention. The emeritus king’s protectiveness over Irene was evident, as he did not want his sister, whom he considered naive, to suffer disappointment in love.
Reflections on Irene’s life
Irene of Greece has lived a life marked by family loyalty and the search for her identity in a world that has often been hostile to her. Her story is a reminder of the complexities of love, sacrifice and loneliness. As she continues to fight the disease, her legacy lives on, symbolising the strength and vulnerability of a woman who, despite her situation, remains a pillar in the life of the royal family.
