European Royalty Unite to Honor Holocaust Victims
The 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau has brought together prominent figures from European royalty, including Felipe VI and Letizia, to pay their respects to the victims of the Holocaust. The solemn ceremony was attended by the President of Italy, Sergio Materella, and Princess Máxima of the Netherlands, among other dignitaries.
A Show of Solidarity and Commitment
Felipe VI and Letizia were accompanied by the Minister of Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, Ángel Víctor Torres. This occasion marked their second visit to the site, having previously attended the 75th anniversary of the camp’s liberation in 2020. During their initial visit, Felipe VI signed the Book of Honor, emphasizing the importance of preserving memory with truth, solidarity, and education to prevent similar atrocities from occurring.
The royal couple’s message concluded with a expression of gratitude for the opportunity to represent Spain at Auschwitz-Birkenau, acknowledging the profound impact of their experience. Prior to the official ceremony, they had the opportunity to visit the infamous site, including Barrack 7, where a photograph of Joaquín Corteillo, a Spanish victim, is displayed.
Historical Significance and Contemporary Relevance
The Spanish government has chosen to include this event in their agenda, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Franco’s death. Notably, the Minister of Democratic Memory, Ángel Víctor Torres, accompanied the royal couple, rather than the Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares. This decision suggests an attempt to link Franco’s death with the end of World War II, despite the chronological disparity. In contrast, the 75th anniversary of the closure of Mauthausen in 2020 was attended by the then-head of diplomacy, Arancha González Laya.