The youngest heir in Europe

In the shock surrounding the abdication of Juan Carlos as King of Spain, his successors have taken second place.  The focus will fall on Felipe, soon to be the sixth king of that name to rule Spain but another moment in history has touched the country.  Leonor, eldest daughter of the Prince of Asturias, will soon be the youngest heiress in Europe.

Leonor, soon to be heiress to the throne of Spain

On the day of her father's succession, the Infanta Leonor will be eight years old.  Amalia of the Netherlands is eleven while Elisabeth of the Belgians is twelve.  The three young girls will all inherit thrones in decades to come but for now they are young heirs waiting their turn.

Leonor with the King and Queen of Spain and the monarchs in waiting on the day of her christening

But Leonor's reign as youngest queen in waiting will disappear in December when the baby that Princess Charlene is expecting is born.  For that child will be heir to his or her country's throne from the moment they are born.  But for now, Leonor y Todos Los Santos takes her place in Europe's spotlight as the youngest heir to the throne on the continent.