Thousands of people are expected to take to the streets of the Spanish capital today to see the new King Felipe VI crowned.<br /><br />The new monarch takes the throne just hours after the Spanish defending champions were kicked out of the World Cup.<br /><br />But not many tourists expect that will dampen celebrations.<br /><br />“I have bought a few details, a mug with the image of the new king because I think it will be a historic day, I do not think I will live to see the next coronation.”<br /><br />Some store owners say takings have soared largely because of Felipe’s popular clean-cut image is helping to shift souvenirs.<br /><br />“The truth is that I’m surprised, because everything is selling really well, we are running out a lot of products,” said one shop worker.<br /><br />But Spain’s long recession and continuing struggles with its economy have made many feel uncomfortable or unable to take part in any lavish ceremony.<br /><br />Antonio Gil Alonso, Head of Madrid Hotels Association said: “We will have an average occupation similar to what we normally have at this time of year I think the proclamation intentionally will be low-key and it may even diminish visitor numbers to Madrid.”<br /><br />Nonetheless, no-one is leaving anything to chance. Several restaurants have special menus, cakes and patisseries on offer to mark the occasion across the city.
