Pope Leo XIV arrives in Spain on 6 June. It is the first papal visit to the country in 15 years - Francis never came. That makes this visit not only a religious occasion but a political one too - and the Spanish court does not intend to miss it.

Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia will take active part in the two most important events: the reception at the Royal Palace, where the Pope will meet the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps; and the liturgy on Cibeles square in Madrid on 7 June. The last time we saw them before a Pope was 15 years ago - they were children, their father was not yet king. Now they will be there as crown princess and second in line to the throne.

The Spaniards are following the strategy that defines a modern European monarchy: the children become „faces of the future" before the Pope. Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella of Monaco (12 years old) were central when Leo XIV visited their country in March. Prince Charles of Luxembourg, turning 6 this week, together with his brother François (aged 2), had an audience at the Vatican in January. Now it is Leonor and Sofia's turn.

For Balkan readers this shows how modern monarchies operate: a papal visit is a diplomatic event with a precise schedule. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia will welcome him at „Adolfo Suarez" airport at 10:30. Liturgy at Cibeles. Mass in Barcelona on 10 June. Queen Sofia will see him off in Tenerife on 12 June.

Every step is planned. No royal turns up by accident. When the future monarchs of Spain meet the Pope, it will be a textbook image of diplomacy - and a reminder that modern monarchies are not only weddings, but a maintained system of symbols.