Royal Visit to Rome: A Day of Prayer and History

A Day of History and Symbolism

In Rome, King Charles and Queen Camilla had a busy day filled with history and symbolism.

Meeting the Pope

They started their visit at the Vatican, where they met Pope Leo XIV.

• King Charles gave the Pope a special gift: a large silver photo and icon of St Edward the Confessor, a king known for his deep faith.
• In return, the Pope gave the King a small copy of a famous mosaic called "Christ Pantocrator."

Prayer at the Sistine Chapel

After the gift exchange, the royal couple and the Pope went to the Sistine Chapel.

• There, they prayed together, marking the first time the head of the Church of England publicly prayed with a Pope.
• This moment was significant because it showed unity between different parts of the Christian faith.

Environmental Discussion

Following the prayer, the King and Pope talked about the environment.

• They met with people from groups working to protect nature.
• Both leaders care about the planet and want to make a difference.

Basilica of St Paul's Outside the Walls

The royal couple then went to the Basilica of St Paul's Outside the Walls.

• This huge church is named after St Paul, who is buried there.
• Inside, the King sat in a special chair made just for him.
• The chair has his coat of arms and a Latin phrase that means "That they may be one."
• This chair will stay in the church for future visits by the King or his family.

Queen's Outfit Change

At the basilica, the Queen changed her outfit.

• She had been wearing black, as is traditional when meeting the Pope, but switched to a white dress for the service.
• After the service, the royals met with schoolchildren and other people who came to see them.

Separate Meetings

The day ended with separate meetings for the King and Queen.

• The King went to Pontifical Beda College.
• The Queen met with nuns.

Their visit to Rome was short but meaningful, filled with moments that connected history and faith.