Spain's monarchs return to Valencia after flood tragedy

This Tuesday (19), King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia made a new visit to the cities of Valencia affected by the strong floods in October, which caused the death of more than 200 people. This time, the royalty was received with applause and words of gratitude from the population, unlike the first visit, which was marked by protests and hostility.

Warm welcome after initial chaos

Tuesday's visit took place in much milder weather, compared to the chaotic reception during the royals' first visit to the region, in early November. On that occasion, Felipe VI and Letizia were harassed by residents of Paiporta, one of the suburbs of Valencia, who criticized the authorities' lack of preparation for the storm that devastated the area. During the first visit, some residents even threw mud at the royal delegation, reflecting their frustration with the lack of adequate warnings about the risk of flooding. However, upon returning, the scenario was very different. In Chiva, one of the most affected cities, the royal couple was greeted with applause and screams that echoed through the streets. Local residents expressed their gratitude for the king and queen's presence, highlighting that their visit was a gesture of support and solidarity at a time of great pain and need.

Reconstruction and support

During his visit, Felipe VI not only offered words of consolation, but also reaffirmed the monarchy's commitment to the recovery of areas affected by the floods. The king highlighted the enormous need for reconstruction, especially for families who lost everything. Accompanied by Queen Letizia, he walked through some of the worst-hit streets in Chiva, where traces of the damage caused by water and mud are still visible.

Embed from Getty Images

_{Image of damaged areas, in Chiva, Valencia (Photo: reproduction/Lorena Sopena/Getty Images Embed/Anadolu)}

The monarchs also visited other cities in the region, such as Utiel and Letur, where they were equally well received. Felipe VI stated that his visit was intended to demonstrate the monarchy's support for those still struggling to rebuild their lives. The royal presence, although symbolic, brought relief and served as a reminder that the recovery process is still ongoing and requires everyone's collaboration.

Featured photo: King Felipe VI of Spain greets residents during a visit to the flood-damaged city of Chiva (Reproduction/Jose Jordan/Getty Images Embed/AFP)