For a long time, Sofía was considered the quiet girl at her famous sister's side. While Leonor was in the limelight from an early age as heir to the throne, Sofía learned to stay in the background. At official appearances, she even deliberately wore flat shoes so as not to tower over her younger sister at 1.81 meters, Sofía is around ten centimetres taller than Leonor. A gesture that reveals a lot about the distribution of roles in this family.
But on her 19th birthday, a new era seems to have finally begun. The reserved girl has become a confident young woman who is going her own way and far away from Madrid.
Sofía of Spain: Study instead of uniform
In the fall of 2025, Sofía took a step that her sister Leonor was not allowed to take. Instead of completing three years of military training like the heir to the throne, the Infanta opted for a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and International Relations at Forward College, an elite private school with campuses in Lisbon, Paris and Berlin.
Three years, three cities, three chapters. She started in Lisbon, then went to Paris and spent the last year of her studies in Berlin-Kreuzberg of all places - in the middle of the lively Wrangelkiez district. A world that could hardly be further away from the Zarzuela Palace.
Royal Sofía: Finally anonymous in everyday life
What many people don't know is that in Spain, Sofía is recognized at every turn. In Berlin or Lisbon, she can simply be a student for the first time in her life. Strolling through the streets in a hoodie and cap, hanging out in the park with fellow students without anyone pulling out their cell phone.
Sofía speaks fluent English and is also learning Portuguese, French and German. The course costs around 18,500 euros per year - her parents are paying the fees. With this choice, she is following in her father's footsteps: King Felipe once completed his Master's degree in International Relations at the renowned Georgetown University in Washington.
Sofía of Spain: The sister bond remains
Despite the physical distance, Sofía still has an exceptionally close relationship with Leonor. Only 1.5 years separate the two, and they grew up almost like twins. Spanish psychologist Lara Ferreiro, who has been observing the royal family for years, describes Sofía as charismatic, loyal and a perfectionist.
Ferreiro speaks openly about how the young royal suffers from the so-called "princess syndrome" - the constant pressure to be perfect, even though she will always be number two. A burden that no one can relieve her of.
The royal and her new role
King Felipe himself made it clear in 2024 that he is also counting on his younger daughter. Leonor will ensure the continuity of the monarchy, but Sofía will also "have to help a lot", the monarch explained. When she came of age last year, her father awarded her the Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic - one of Spain's highest honors.
When Sofía celebrates her 19th birthday, it won't be in the limelight, but in a private setting. Just the way she likes it. A young woman who finally steps out of the shadows - not loudly, but quietly.
