King Charles and Queen Camilla will pay a state visit to the Holy See next month, Buckingham Palace announced on Saturday, rescheduling a trip they were forced to cancel in April due to the failing health of the late Pope Francis.
The royal couple had originally been due to visit the Vatican as part of a wider tour of Italy, but the trip was postponed on medical advice after Francis was instructed to rest. They nevertheless managed to hold a private meeting with the pontiff, becoming among the final dignitaries to see him before his death a few weeks later.
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As part of the re-arranged visit, the King and Queen will join Pope Leo XIV for celebrations marking the 2025 Catholic Holy Year, the palace said. The visit will also highlight ecumenical cooperation between the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church.
British media have reported that the itinerary could include a visit to the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel.
Charles, who as monarch is supreme governor of the Church of England which split from Rome in 1534 has previously met Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI.
