Exclusive: Inside the Meeting Between King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Pope Francis: Unraveling the Mystery behind the Canceled Plans
King Charles and Queen Camilla Bid Farewell to Pope Francis
King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to depart from Pope Francis’ company. On a surprising note, the royal couple recently met with the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church during their official journey to Italy on April 9.
Buckingham Palace released a statement confirming the private audience: “Their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla had a discreet meeting with His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican this afternoon. The royal pair were thrilled that the Pope was well enough to receive them, expressing their best wishes in person.”
It appears that Pope Francis extended an invitation to the monarchs for a one-on-one meeting as their scheduled state visit was delayed, resulting in the impromptu gathering at the Vatican. During the 20-minute session, gifts were exchanged, and the Pope congratulated the couple on their 20th wedding anniversary.
A palace representative added, “Their Majesties were overjoyed that the Pope could accommodate a private meeting and allow them to convey their regards in person.”
Following their activities at Parliament, Charles, 76, and Camilla, 77, returned to Villa Wolkonsky for a brief break and attire change before heading to the Vatican.
King Charles and Queen Camilla’s journey spans from April 7 to April 10, originally planning visits to Italy and the Holy See, the governing body of the Catholic Church situated in the Vatican City.
Prior to their departure, the palace announced the postponement of the Holy See segment of their itinerary due to the Pope’s recent health concerns, shortly after his release from a 38-day hospital stay on March 23.
Expressing their well wishes for the Pope’s recovery, King Charles and Queen Camilla look forward to a future visit: “Their Majesties send The Pope their best wishes for his recovery and eagerly anticipate their visit to The Holy See once he is feeling better,” stated a palace release on March 25.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have crossed paths with Pope Francis on prior occasions, with their most recent reunion coinciding with a significant milestone for the couple.
Celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9, the royal duo enjoyed a regal evening at a lavish state banquet at the Palazzo Quirinale.
