On Sunday, King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain attended the inaugural Mass marking the commencement of Pope Leo XIV's papacy in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City.
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Upon their arrival at St. Peter’s Basilica, Their Majesties were received by the Holy See’s Chief of Protocol, Javier Domingo Fernández. They made their way through the basilica and exited through the central doors into St. Peter’s Square, where they took their designated seats to the left of the altar in the section reserved for Spain.
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Following the ceremony, they engaged in a private audience with the Pope inside St. Peter's Basilica.
During their visit, the Spanish monarchs also met with international dignitaries, including President Dina Boluarte of Peru and President Sergio Mattarella of Italy. Additionally, they convened with the Spanish delegation at the residence of Spain's ambassador to the Holy See.
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At the inaugural Mass for Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square, Queen Letizia made a symbolic impression in a sophisticated white ensemble, embodying the rare privilège du blanc—a tradition that permits select Catholic queens to wear white in the Pope’s presence, rather than the customary black attire required for women at formal Vatican events. This honor, rooted in centuries-old protocol, underscores Spain’s deep historical ties to the Catholic Church and signifies both reverence and respect during the pontifical ceremony.
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She donned a bespoke midi-length dress crafted from white crepe by Redondo Brand, a Spanish occasionwear label founded by Jorge Redondo in 2019. The dress featured elegant long sleeves and a refined asymmetrical draped neckline, harmonizing modern design with the solemnity of the occasion.
The mantilla was crafted by the esteemed Spanish firm Lina Sevilla, based in Seville. Founded by Marcelina Fernández and Francisco Montero, the brand has a rich history in Andalusian craftsmanship. Mila Montero, the current director, shared that the Spanish Royal Household approached them for this significant occasion. The design was carefully selected to complement Her Majesty's ensemble by Redondo Brand. Montero expressed pride in the Queen's choice, noting that she wore the mantilla impeccably, adapting it seamlessly to her style.
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Queen Letizia upheld her personal tradition of wearing the Ansorena bezel-set diamond and pearl earrings, a cherished choice for papal audiences. She wore them during her first meeting with the late Pope Francis shortly after becoming Queen Consort in 2014.
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Queen Letizia carried a small white handbag and wore Magrit 'Clara' pumps in camel leather.
On the eve of the Mass, King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia warmly greeted crowds outside the Spanish Embassy in Rome, shortly after arriving in the city.
© Casa de S.M. el Rey
Queen Letizia looked polished in a sleek black Mango straight-fit suit jacket and matching trousers, complemented by a crisp white shirt for a sharp, contemporary look.
She wore a stylish new pair of Sézane Paula Babies in Ecru/Black (US$215). [Photo reference here.]
Queen Letizia completed her ensemble with the striking Pdpaola Large 'Sugar' Earrings.
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