Rome, April 8, 2025 – The Europe Today: King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom arrived in Italy on Monday for a four-day State visit, during which they will visit Rome and Ravenna, according to Italian news agency ANSA.
During their three-day stay in Rome, Their Majesties are scheduled to meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. A highlight of the visit will take place on Wednesday, when King Charles is set to address a joint session of the Italian Parliament at the Lower House in a special ceremony attended by both Chambers—marking the first time a British monarch has addressed such a gathering.
On Thursday, the royal couple will travel to Ravenna, where they will pay tribute to Italian literary giant Dante Alighieri at his tomb. King Charles will also attend a commemorative reception marking the 80th anniversary of Ravenna’s liberation from Nazi occupation by Allied Forces.
The official itinerary will not include a meeting with Pope Francis, as initially planned. Buckingham Palace previously announced that, by mutual agreement, the meeting was postponed due to the pontiff’s recovery needs. Pope Francis, 88, was discharged from hospital last week following a 38-day battle with pneumonia. His doctors have recommended a convalescence period of at least two months.
The State visit underscores the enduring ties between the United Kingdom and Italy, and highlights shared historical and cultural connections.
