The royal visit is expected to foster collaboration in key areas such as defense, sustainability, and clean energy, while also celebrating cultural connections as the UK seeks to strengthen its ties with European partners.
A Warm Arrival in Rome
King Charles and Queen Camilla were in good spirits as they touched down in Rome on the first day of their state visit. This marks the King’s 18th official trip to Italy, while the Queen is making her third. The royal couple is set to stay at Villa Wolkonsky, the official residence of the UK Ambassador in the Italian capital.
Dressed to Impress
The King looked dapper in a navy pinstripe suit complemented by his signature Hermès owl print tie. Queen Camilla exuded elegance in a chic Fiona Clare crepe dress and black leather pumps, adding glamour with pearl drop earrings and a touch of rosy lipstick.
A Joyful Welcome
His Majesty was photographed waving to the crowds as they arrived, clearly pleased to be in the Italian capital. The pair radiated joy as they made their way down the red carpet, which was laid out for their arrival.
Historic Engagements Ahead
Over the next few days, the royal couple will meet with Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Notably, King Charles will make history by becoming the first British monarch to address a joint session of the Italian Parliament.
An Overview of Their Visit
Lord Llewellyn shared that this visit represents “a moment in history as well as a great honor and another indication of the closeness of our ties.” A highlight will surely be a lavish black-tie State Banquet hosted by President Mattarella on April 9, coinciding with the King and Queen’s 20th wedding anniversary.
Their itinerary includes a visit to the iconic Colosseum, where the Welsh Guards and the Italian Granatieri di Sardegna will perform together, followed by a spectacular flypast featuring the RAF’s Red Arrows and the Italian Frecce Tricolori.
In Ravenna, King Charles and Queen Camilla will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the city by British and Canadian armed forces from Nazi occupation.
They will indulge in local specialties with a British twist, including parmesan and whisky pairings, at a festival celebrating the Slow Food movement in Emilia Romagna. The King will engage with farmers affected by recent flooding, while the Queen will meet representatives from a local domestic violence charity.
To celebrate literary heritage, the royal visitors will pay homage at Dante’s tomb, and the Queen will take a solo trip to the Byron Museum.
