King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to embark on an official state visit to Italy and Vatican City this spring. The royal journey aims to celebrate the "strong bilateral relationship between Italy and the UK." Their visit includes engagements in Rome and Ravenna, coinciding with their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9. This overseas trip follows their extensive visit to Australia and Samoa last October.
Accompanying the royal couple will be the Italian Ambassador to the UK, His Excellency Inigo Lambertini, and his wife, Mrs. Maria Grazia Lambertini. Together, they will host a dinner at Highgrove, highlighting the cultural ties between the two nations. The dinner guests will include Italian-American actor Stanley Tucci, known for his celebration of Italian culture.
The dinner will focus on Slow Food and Slow Fashion, movements emphasizing sustainable practices. Chef Francesco Mazzei has crafted a menu inspired by Stanley Tucci's show, "Tucci – The Heart of Italy." The menu promises to reflect authentic Italian flavors while promoting sustainability.
In addition to the dinner, students and alumni from The King's Foundation will attend a reception at the event. They will provide demonstrations on sustainable fashion and traditional heritage skills, showcasing their dedication to preserving cultural craftsmanship.
During their time in Vatican City, King Charles and Queen Camilla will meet with Pope Francis. This meeting will mark the 2025 Jubilee Year, a significant event for the Catholic Church held every 25 years. Known as a year of walking together as 'Pilgrims of Hope,' the Jubilee emphasizes unity and renewal within the Church.
The royal visit aims not only to strengthen diplomatic ties but also to engage with Italy's rich cultural heritage. Through their interactions in Rome and Ravenna, the King and Queen hope to deepen the bond between the UK and Italy while acknowledging shared traditions and values.
