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Spanish Royals begin historic visit to Ceuta

Felipe VI and Letizia arrive in Ceuta for their first official visit since 2014 amid a recent migration crisis and significant police presence.

14 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Spanish Royals begin historic visit to Ceuta — Photo: Presidencia El Salvador from San Salvador, El Salvador, América Central · Wikimedia Commons · CC0

Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have arrived in Ceuta for their first official visit to the autonomous city since the king ascended the throne in June 2014. This visit marks a milestone, being the first by a Spanish monarch in 20 years, with the last visit by King Juan Carlos I occurring in November 2007. Upon arrival, the King expressed to journalists his eagerness to get to know the city 'with enthusiasm and desire.'

The visit of the Royals is intended as a gesture of solidarity toward the local population, coming two and a half months after a surge of migrants in July, when around 70,000 people crossed the border from Morocco. This situation has had a significant impact on the Ceuta community, which is still dealing with the aftermath of this event.

According to reports, the citizens of Ceuta have welcomed the visit with enthusiasm, highlighting that this is a historic moment. The atmosphere in the city was characterized by a heavy police presence and a notable crowd awaiting the arrival of the Royals. It was mentioned that during their stay, they would address socially significant issues, including a visit to Vicente Aleixandre school and a tribute to those who lost their lives at sea during migration attempts.

Additionally, the visit occurs amid diplomatic tensions with Morocco, which claims sovereignty over Ceuta. Some reactions from Moroccan media have described the visit as an event of little historical relevance, while on the Spanish side, the sovereignty of Spain over the enclave has been reaffirmed.

During their stay, the King also emphasized the importance of this visit in the context of the migration crisis and how it affects relations between Spain and Morocco, which are currently tense. The Royals' agenda includes activities aimed at showing support for the Ceuta community during such a critical time.

The day's developments have been widely covered by the media, which reported on the arrival of the Air Force helicopter that transported the Royals to the Ceuta helipad. The institutional nature of the visit is expected to symbolize support for the city following the difficult period experienced. After their time in Ceuta, the Royals will continue their journey to Melilla, another autonomous city.

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