Princess Leonor Visits Catalan Village Amidst Protests
Medieval Jewel Hosts Royal Tour Linked to Design Icon
Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia toured the medieval village of Sant Martí Vell, a historic enclave in Girona. The visit, part of the Princess of Girona Foundation awards, encountered local dissent. Around twenty independentistas voiced their opposition, displaying a banner reading “Out Bourbons” in Catalan.
Local Opposition Met Royal Visit
The royal sisters were met with whistles and anti-monarchist sentiment during their walk through the village. The secessionist demonstration was reportedly organized against the mayor of Sant Martí Vell, who is a member of Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya. Some residents had previously expressed objections to hosting the royal contingent.
Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia visit Sant Martí Vell, a medieval village in Girona. The visit comes amidst protests by local separatists. More details to follow. #RoyalFamily #Catalonia
— World Today News (@WorldTodayNews) July 24, 2025
Following in Designer’s Footsteps
Despite the initial protests, the Princess and Infanta proceeded with their exploration of Sant Martí Vell. Their itinerary focused on the legacy of Italian designer Elsa Peretti, who made the village the center of her life and artistic work.
The daughters of the King followed the path once trodden by **Elsa Peretti**, the acclaimed designer who found inspiration in this Catalan locale. She discovered the town in the 1970s while working on a report about **Salvador Dalí**, forging connections with local artisans.
Peretti significantly contributed to the village, restoring 18 houses and three farmhouses. Her philanthropic efforts, managed by the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation, ensure her artistic legacy remains preserved. **Princess Leonor** and **Infanta Sofia** were given a firsthand look at her former residence and workshop.
Royal Engagement with Youth Programs
During their tour, the Princess and Infanta learned about the collaboration between the Princess of Girona Foundation (FPDGI) and the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation. They met with **Sandra Camós**, director of educational programs at FPDGI, **Daniela Jenni**, philanthropy lead for the Nando Foundation, and model **Eugenia Silva**, an ambassador for the ‘They speak code’ project.
The royal sisters also engaged with organizers of a Special Intervention Plan for Young People in Valencia. This program, initiated by FPDGI, aims to support youth affected by natural disasters through education, entrepreneurship, health, and cultural initiatives.
At the conclusion of their visit, **Princess Leonor** wore a heart-shaped pendant, a signature design by **Elsa Peretti** for Tiffany & Co. Later, the royal family, including the King and Queen, convened with the FPDGI’s young advisory council before departing the region under a substantial security presence.
