Spanish King and Queen Visit Florida

After their state visit to Jamaica King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia headed to Pensacola and Miami in Florida, USA.

The visit started on February 18, when their Majesties attended the commemorative events marking the 450th anniversary of the founding of the Santa María settlement, the first Spanish settlement in the US, in Pensacola Bay by Tristán de Luna y Arellano.

The next day, the King and Queen met with the Spanish expats living in Pensacola, and afterwards they visited the Wentworth Museum of Pensacola, where they were shown the variousthe activities of the “Celebrate Pensacola” Foundation.

On this occasion, His Majesty the King addressed the citizens of Pensacola from the balcony of the T.T. Wentworth Museum. In his Speech King Juan Carlos said: “Today we are in Pensacola to tell you that Spain values your commitment to preserving this Spanish legacy, and that we are proud of your ancestors and admire how their descendants have helped to build this country.”

“…We proudly remember today our shared past and the many Spaniards who have made history in this city, and we do so while looking towards the future.” Click here to see the entire speech

The King and Queen’s next stop was Miami. They were welcomed by the City Mayor Manny Diaz and attended the dinner offered by the South Beach Wine and Food Festival at Biltmore Hotel. The Festival is a national event showcasing the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities.

On Friday, His Majesty the King presided over the opening of the business conference on renewable energies, organized by the Spanish Economic and Commercial Office in Miami.
Their Majesties then headed to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, where they graced the opening of the Spanish hall.

Filed under Spain
Tagged Anniversary, Juan Carlos I of Spain, Queen Sofia of Spain, United States of America, Working Visit.