Imagine living just down the street from your grandchildren — yet still needing permission to see them.That’s the situation many believe Queen Sofía quietly faced inside Spain’s royal household.
From the very beginning, Queen Letizia reportedly set firm boundaries when it came to raising her daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía. According to Royal Magazine, she wanted full control over their upbringing — from who could visit, to when and how often.
Queen Sofía, known for her warm and affectionate nature, reportedly loved spoiling her granddaughters — bringing them gifts, planning little surprises, and hoping to spend spontaneous time with them.
However, reports suggest Letizia was not comfortable with this approach. According to multiple accounts, Sofía’s informal visits were limited, with an expectation that time with the girls be scheduled or more formal. Sofía reportedly confided to close friends that she felt “unwelcome” in her granddaughters’ home.
Meanwhile, Letizia’s own mother, Paloma Rocasolano, was often seen taking on a more active role in helping care for the children. When King Felipe VI and Letizia traveled, reports claimed Paloma was frequently chosen to babysit them .
