Draped with the Greek flag, the coffin containing the body of Princess Irene, sister of former Queen Sofia of Spain, who passed away at the age of 83, arrived at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens shortly before 08:00 AM.

Her body lay in state in the chapel of the Metropolitan Cathedral until 10:30 a.m., with the funeral service to be held at 12:00 p.m. Senior European royals are expected to attend the funeral, including King Felipe VI of Spain, his wife Letizia, and their daughters, Crown Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia. The British royal family will be represented by Sir Timothy Lawrence, husband of Princess Anne, and Lady Gabriella Kingston.

Notable absences will be that of former King Juan Carlos, who, due to serious health problems, has been advised by doctors not to travel from Abu Dhabi, where he currently lives. Also, Marie Chantal, the wife of Paul de Gres, will not attend the ceremony due to a recent operation on her mother in New York.

Minutes after the coffin arrived, scores of citizens began to bid farewell to Princess Irene, a special figure in the Greek royal dynasty. Known for her unconventional nature and often nicknamed “Tia Pecu” – “strange aunt” – she was always at peace with her individuality.

Contrary to the strict expectations of royal protocol, Princess Irene chose a life away from pomp and traditional roles, not marrying and having no descendants. However, she was never considered the “black sheep” of the family, but rather a sui generis personality, committed to family ties and human values ​​over royal status and etiquette. Princess Irene will be remembered as a noble woman who chose to live according to her convictions, leaving behind a unique legacy within the history of European royal families.