No one expected the latest from Queen Letizia and Pope Leo XIV: few can do it

Today is a historic and deeply symbolic day for the Catholic Church: Pope Leo XIV celebrates his enthronement mass, officially marking the beginning of his pontificate. It is a majestic ceremony, steeped in tradition, attended by heads of state, religious leaders, and representatives from around the world. But among all the figures present, there is one who has especially captured the attention of attendees and international media: Queen Letizia of Spain.

Accompanied by King Felipe VI, Letizia will attend the solemn event, held in St. Peter's Square, thus showing the deep commitment of the Royal House to the Catholic faith. Despite having a clear schedule this Sunday, Felipe and Letizia decided to reserve this date to participate in one of the most significant moments of the Church. This has been interpreted as a gesture of closeness and respect toward the Vatican institution and the new pontiff.

What has surprised everyone is the possibility that Doña Letizia will use for the first time in a pontificate inauguration mass the so-called "privilege of white." This special protocol is reserved exclusively for a very select group of women worldwide, only six in total. It consists of the possibility of dressing completely in white, with a mantilla and dress of the same color, during private audiences with the Pope and masses of special relevance.

Queen Letizia may wear white at the ceremony of Pope Leo XIV

Letizia, who already attended the inaugural mass of Pope Francis in 2013 as Princess of Asturias, could not then exercise this right and had to dress in strict mourning, as required by Vatican etiquette for those who do not have this privilege.

It was not until 2014, after the proclamation of Felipe VI, that Letizia appeared for the first time in white at a papal audience. Now, as Queen, she is authorized to wear this attire at official events like today's.

Queen Letizia shares this "privilege" of wearing white with Pope Leo XIV with other monarchs

Alongside her, this "privilege" is also shared by: Queen Sofia, Queen Paola, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg, and Princess Charlene of Monaco.

All of them are consorts of Catholic monarchs, an essential requirement to receive this exceptional authorization.

The expectation is high, and we will have to wait for the start of the mass to confirm if Letizia will make use of this exclusive symbol. Nevertheless, beyond the protocol details, the absolute protagonist of the day is Pope Leo XIV, who begins his pastoral mission with this ceremony, surrounded by the respect and support of faithful and leaders from around the world.