My mailbox was full of questions last night. You can read the answers in this blog.
Reader question 1: where was Amalia?
The layout of the tables (placement) is carefully considered at the court. The most important guest sits to the right of King Willem-Alexander. In this case: King Felipe.
Queen Máxima sits to the right of the most important guest. And the second most important guest sits to the left of King Willem-Alexander. This was also the case during Belgium’s state visit (2016).
Let us now continue to Amalia. Last night, the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hanke Bruins Slot, sat to the left of Queen Letizia. This was followed by the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares. Because the state visit is arranged by both Ministries of Foreign Affairs, it was the right choice. After the Spanish minister sat Princess Amalia. So front row.
Reader question 2: why did Queen Letizia sit during the passage?
For those who don’t know what a passade is: before a state visit starts, all guests are allowed to meet the king and queen. This is what you call a passade. Since Queen Letizia has chronic pain in the ball of her foot, she always walks in flat shoes or modest heels and also tries to sit as much as possible. In the photo: both royal couples with footballer Frenkie de Jong and his girlfriend.
Reader question 3: what was eaten?
I haven’t seen the menu yet. As soon as I know more, I will provide an update.
More questions? Feel free to post them below.
