On Wednesday afternoon, The King and Queen embarked on an unannounced journey from the UK Ambassador’s Residence in Rome to Vatican City.
A new photograph released this morning depicts Their Majesties smiling warmly as they met with Pope Francis for a twenty-minute private audience. The encounter took place despite the pontiff’s recent health challenges; he had previously spent over a month recovering from a hospital stay, prompting earlier postponements of the State Visit.
It seems both sides desired a more intimate meeting during the Italian State Visit, and the Pope personally extended an invitation. Confirmation of the audience was only possible yesterday morning due to His Holiness’s ongoing recuperation following his illness.
The King was seen carrying a red box—likely part of a customary exchange of gifts between the parties—though Buckingham Palace has declined to disclose the contents.
Despite a demanding schedule this week, including the King’s historic address to a joint session of the Italian Parliament – marking the first time a British monarch had done so – time was carved out mid-afternoon for the trip to the Vatican. Following the meeting, The King and Queen swiftly returned to Villa Wolkonsky to change.
Adhering to tradition, both Their Majesties wore black attire as a gesture of respect, modesty, and solemnity during the private audience.
Sir Clive Alderton, the King’s Principal Private Secretary, and Belinda Kim, Her Majesty’s Deputy Private Secretary, were present for the meeting.
According to reports, Pope Francis conveyed his congratulations to The King and Queen on their twentieth wedding anniversary. A Vatican spokesperson reportedly also expressed well wishes for His Majesty’s ongoing cancer treatment.
“Their Majesties were delighted The Pope was well enough to host them for a private meeting, and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person,” stated a Buckingham Palace spokesperson.
While the State Visit to the Holy See remains postponed, discussions between the UK Government, Buckingham Palace, and the Vatican are ongoing regarding rescheduling. However, it is anticipated that any such visit will not occur for some time due to His Majesty’s commitments.
These include a significant diplomatic effort – dubbed an “unprecedented royal charm offensive” – aimed at fostering positive relations with the United States ahead of potentially challenging trade negotiations with President Trump. Furthermore, as King of Canada, The King may also wish to make his first official visit to the country.
The King and Queen’s busy schedule continues today with a series of engagements in Ravenna, notably commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the province from Nazi occupation by British and Canadian troops.
