It was an historic day for a future queen and it’s become the centrepiece of her family’s festive greeting.

An image of Princess Leonor from the day she came of age and swore her allegiance to the Spanish Constitution has been chosen for the Spanish royal Christmas car this year.

Leonor is seen with her parents, King Felipe and Queen Letizia, and her younger sister, Infanta Sofia, in the image.

But while the King and Queen of Spain sign their names first on this card, the photo is all about Leonor. The future queen is in the middle of the photo chosen with her parents at either end of the family group.

This year has seen the Princess of Asturias take a starring role in her royal family’s public life. After graduating from UWC Atlantic College in Wales in early summer, Leonor carried out engagements in Spain before beginning military training in August.

In early autumn, she captured headlines across the country as she made an oath to the Spanish flag at a ceremony in Zaragoza which saw her parents clearly moved by the emotions of the day.

This was followed by the presentation of the Princess of Asturias Awards in Oviedo where winners this year included Hollywood star, Meryl Streep.

Then, on October 31st 2023, Princess Leonor was given a prolonged standing ovation in the Spanish Parliament as she swore her allegiance to the Spanish Constitution.

Her positive image has been a boost for the Spanish royals who have, once again, had a year filled with highs and lows. Leonor’s father, King Felipe VI, has come in for criticism after asking Pedro Sanchez to form a government which led to a coalition that has drawn widespread criticism and led to protests in several Spanish cities. As the year ended, a new book about Queen Letizia made claims about a relationship between her and her former brother in law which has led to further debate.