Felipe's first destination: Catalonia

Catalonia was the first domestic destination of Felipe VI as king of Spain. The king had only good words about the region and praised the Catalan people despite numerous protests this year on the autonomy of the region.

Spain's new king visited the Catalan city of Girona (about 100 kilometers north of Barcelona) where he spoke at an ceremony for young entrepreneurs. “I have used these visits to make the Crown even more present in this land, and to convey a message of respect, mutual understanding and coexistence, which as I sand in my proclamation address are inherent of our parliamentary democracy,” the king said in Catalan.

The number of visits Felipe took to Catalonia increased this year. He also met Catalan politicians and business leaders. He praises the “entrepreneurial spirit, initiative, critical spirit and outward looking vision” of the Catalan people.

“These qualities have characterized the men and women of Catalonia throughout history and have justifiable attracted respect, admiration and affection. They have also contributed to the general progress of Spain as a whole,” the king added.

Felipe's visit to Girona was not appreciated by some. About 500 people turned out for a demonstration hours before he reached the city.