King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to visit Italy and the Vatican in April, with a scheduled meeting with Pope Francis, despite the pontiff’s ongoing health challenges.
Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the royal visit, planned for April 7-10, will go ahead as scheduled. The Vatican’s decision to proceed with the meeting suggests that Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for the past month due to a severe respiratory infection, is expected to be well enough for engagements in the coming weeks.
The visit is being hailed as a historic step in strengthening ties between the Catholic Church and the Church of England, which King Charles leads as its Supreme Governor. Key events include an ecumenical service in the Sistine Chapel and a significant visit to the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, a landmark associated with Christian unity.
A statement from Buckingham Palace emphasized the significance of the trip, calling it a “historic visit” that underscores the continued relationship between the two Christian institutions.
The United Kingdom and the Holy See have maintained full diplomatic relations since 1982, and King Charles, during his time as Prince of Wales, visited Vatican City on five occasions. This visit, however, carries added significance as his first as monarch.
Beyond religious diplomacy, the royal couple will also engage with Italy’s president and prime minister, with King Charles making history as the first British monarch to address both houses of the Italian parliament. Other highlights of the visit include a joint flypast over Rome featuring the Italian Air Force and the Red Arrows, as well as stops in Ravenna, where they will visit Dante’s tomb and a museum dedicated to Lord Byron.
The visit coincides with the 20th anniversary of the King and Queen’s marriage, marking a significant personal milestone for the royal couple.
Meanwhile, the Vatican press office has confirmed that Pope Francis remains stable but continues to receive medical care. Despite his condition, he has been able to pray and carry out some work duties.
This upcoming meeting between King Charles and Pope Francis will serve as a symbol of Christian unity and shared commitment to global humanitarian efforts, reinforcing the longstanding relationship between the British monarchy and the Vatican.
