King Charles III and Queen Camilla celebrate their 20th anniversary with an audience with Pope Francis, and a Grand State Banquet
King Charles III and Queen Camilla concluded their state visit to Rome with a day that blended meaningful diplomatic moments and personal celebrations. It was particularly special as it marked their 20th wedding anniversary, adding an extra layer of significance to their engagements.
The day began with a historic speech by King Charles, making him the first British monarch to address both houses of the Italian Parliament. In his address, he praised the strong ties between the United Kingdom and Italy, highlighting their shared values and cooperative efforts within NATO, as well as their united support for Ukraine. He also called for greater global action on climate change, acknowledging that many of the challenges once seen as warnings have now become harsh realities that demand immediate attention.
Following the speech, the royal couple visited the Vatican for a private audience with Pope Francis. This moment had a special resonance as the meeting had been delayed due to the Pope’s recent health struggles. When they met at Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis warmly congratulated King Charles and Queen Camilla on their 20th wedding anniversary. The audience was brief but personal, lasting around 20 minutes, and marked the third time the King had met with the Pope. Their conversation reflected the longstanding respect and cooperation between the British monarchy and the Vatican.
While King Charles was with the Pope, Queen Camilla focused on her passion for education and literacy by visiting a local school. She wore a reimagined version of her wedding dress, a lovely and symbolic gesture that marked the personal nature of the day and underscored her commitment to causes close to her heart.
The day culminated with a grand state banquet at the Palazzo Quirinale, hosted by Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The banquet was not only a formal celebration of the royal visit but also a heartfelt tribute to King Charles and Queen Camilla’s 20 years of marriage. The grand hall was adorned with opulent decorations, and the atmosphere was one of warmth and elegance. The event was attended by Italy’s political and cultural elite, and it provided an opportunity for the royals to further strengthen the deep ties between Italy and the United Kingdom. The dinner featured exquisite Italian cuisine and was a fitting conclusion to a day that celebrated both diplomacy and love.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their state visit to Italy, lending his support to the monarch at key moments of the trip. His presence at the state banquet hosted by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinal Palace highlighted the importance of the UK’s relationship with Italy. The Foreign Secretary participation not only reflected the government’s commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties but also reinforced collaborative efforts between the two nations on pressing global issues such as climate change and international security. His role added depth to the visit, showcasing the alignment between the monarchy and the government in promoting unity and shared values.
The warmth and generosity of the Italian hospitality, led by President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, were evident throughout the visit. From the thoughtful hosting of a grand state banquet at the Palazzo Quirinale to the enthusiastic welcome of the people of Rome, every moment reflected Italy’s deep respect for the British monarchy and its commitment to fostering close ties. This visit celebrated not only diplomatic collaboration but also the vibrant cultural exchange between the two nations, leaving a lasting impression of unity, mutual admiration, and shared purpose —a perfect end to King Charles and Queen Camilla’s memorable state visit to Rome, Italy.
Visit to Ravenna
On Thursday and Friday the King and Queen will travel to the northern Italian city of Ravenna, where they will visit the tomb of Dante. During their stay in Ravenna, King Charles will visit the 5th and 6th century mosaics in the Basilica of San Vitale and the adjacent Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and take part in a meeting of the Academy of Fine Arts of Ravenna.
The King and Queen will also attend a reception marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the province of Ravenna by Allied Forces, including British and Canadian forces, during the Second World War.
The visit will also provide an opportunity for the King and Queen to take part in a regional festival celebrating traditional cuisine, with King Charles meeting with local farmers, including those affected by the floods that have afflicted Ravenna in recent years.
