The new King of Spain, Felipe VI, ascended to the throne on July 19 2014, following the abdication of his father Juan Carlos I. As King, he is the head-of-state and commander-in-chief of the Spanish Armed Forces and also plays a key role in maintaining good relations with Ibero-America.
Born and raised:
Felipe VI was born on January 30 1968 in Madrid.
Younger years:
Despite his father not being king at the time, Felipe was given to royal title of Infante shortly after birth. He attended Santa Maria de los Rosales during his initial school years and completed high school at Lakefield College School, Ontario, Canada. He attended the Autonomous University of Madrid, graduating with a degree in law and the received a Master of Science in Foreign Service degree from the prestigious Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University.
Duties as Prince:
In his capacity as heir apparent to the Spanish Throne, Felipe has hosted numerous official events. Since 1995, he has represented Spain on many official visits to autonomous regions of the country as well as on official visits to countries in Europe and Latin America. Felipe has also presided over official meetings when his father Juan Carlos has been unavailable and been active representing Spain in global economic forums and events.
In addition to his official activities, Felipe serves as Honorary President of several associations and foundations. One example is the Imperial Munitions Board, which finances economic and social development in Ibero-America. Most noteworthy is the PrÃncipe de Asturias Foundation. He presides annually at the highly prestigious international awards ceremony of the organisation presenting the Prince of Asturias Awards bearing his name.
Family:
Felipe married award-winning television journalist Letizia Ortiz y Rocasolano on 22 May 2004 at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid with members of several European royal families being present. The couple have two daughters together.
Interesting Facts:
– His official title HM Felipe Juan Pablo Alfonso de Todos los Santos de Borbón y de Grecia.
РDespite Real Madrid being the club of choice of the Spanish royal family, Felipe is a fan of their city rivals Atl̩tico Madrid.
– Felipe is an accomplished sailor and represented the Spanish Olympic Team in the 1992 Barcelona Games.
– Felipe speaks Spanish, Catalan, French, English and some Greek.
– Since European royalty have often been related, Felipe is cousins with Greek Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece.
– Following the 11 March 2004, Madrid bombings, Felipe, along with his sisters Elena and Cristina took part in a public protest.