Papal Inauguration of Leo XIV: The Significance of Four Women in White

The recent inauguration of Pope Leo XIV was marked by the striking presence of four women dressed in white amid a sea of darker attire. This rare privilege, known as the Privilège du blanc, is granted by the Vatican and was displayed by these distinguished attendees during the significant ceremony.

At the event, which took place on Sunday, the four women who stood out were Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Queen Letizia of Spain, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg, and Princess Charlène of Monaco. Each of these royal figures represents various European monarchies and holds the special privilege to wear white in the presence of the Pope. This privilege is granted sparingly, with only seven women currently entitled to it.

In addition to the aforementioned queens and princess, the list includes Queen Sofia of Spain, Queen Paola of Belgium, and Princess Marina of Naples, the widow of the former self-proclaimed Prince of Italy. Notably, two of these women are married to former kings, while Princess Marina commemorates her late husband, who passed away in February 2024.

The inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, who hails from the United States--a nation historically rooted in republican ideals--was a noteworthy occasion for these royal women, who are all current leaders of their respective royal families.

Only queens and princesses from Catholic royal houses are permitted to wear white during private audiences or significant events like papal inaugurations. The established protocol requires most attendees to don black attire as a sign of respect and humility. In addition to this, women are expected to cover their heads with a black veil or mantilla unless they hold the Privilège du blanc, in which case they may wear a white veil instead.

For instance, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, though a practicing Catholic, wore black due to her marriage into a Protestant royal family, which does not afford her the same privileges. Similarly, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden adhered to the tradition of wearing black, as her role requires her to be aligned with the Evangelical Lutheran Church.

The Vatican's unspoken etiquette emphasizes the color black as a symbol of humility, contrasting with the white associated with the Pope, representing respect and reverence. Attire standards are strictly upheld: dresses must cover the knees and shoulders, avoid slits, and feature modest makeup. Men, too, are required to wear dark suits and ties.

The Privilège du blanc symbolizes the purity and innocence of Catholic royal houses and is a historical acknowledgment from the Vatican to the monarchies that have supported and remained loyal to it over the centuries.