Jay Boss
Royal Visit Marks a Milestone in UK-Vatican Relations
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit the Vatican in April 2025 for a meeting with Pope Francis, Buckingham Palace confirmed on Thursday.
“Their Majesties the King and Queen will undertake state visits to the Holy See and the Republic of Italy in early April 2025,” the palace announced.
This will be King Charles’s first visit to the Vatican since ascending to the throne in 2022, continuing his diplomatic engagements amid his return to public duties following cancer treatment.
Why Is This Visit Significant?
The visit coincides with the Jubilee Year 2025, a once-in-25-years celebration held by the Catholic Church, emphasizing reflection and renewal.
Notably, the meeting between King Charles—head of the Church of England—and the Pope carries historical weight, as the Church of England was founded in the 16th century when Henry VIII broke ties with the Vatican.
King Charles to Strengthen UK-Italy Relations 🇬🇧🇮🇹
Aside from the Vatican, the royal couple will visit Rome and Ravenna, highlighting the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between Italy and the UK.
Before traveling to Italy, King Charles will host a UK-Italy dinner at Highgrove Gardens on Friday, featuring the Italian ambassador and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci, known for his love of Italian cuisine and his role in the film Conclave.
🍽️ The dinner will celebrate ‘slow food and slow fashion,’ two movements promoting sustainability in gastronomy and fashion.
Charles’s Previous Vatican Visits
While this is his first Vatican visit as King, Charles previously visited five times as Prince of Wales, with his most recent trip in 2019.
His April 2025 state visit will be a historic moment as he engages with the Catholic Church’s leader and further strengthens UK-Italy relations.
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