King Charles and Queen Camilla have released breathtaking new photographs to mark their 20th wedding anniversary, captured in the sun-drenched gardens of Villa Wolkonsky, the British ambassador’s residence in Rome. The images, taken shortly after their arrival in Italy for a state visit, show the royal couple looking relaxed and happy against the backdrop of the historic villa.
In a touching detail, the Queen wore a lily of the valley brooch – a traditional symbol of enduring love – perfectly reflecting the anniversary celebration. The Royal Family shared the photos on social media with a personal message from the couple: “As we begin our first visit to Italy as King and Queen, we are so looking forward to celebrating our twentieth wedding anniversary in such a special place – and with such wonderful people! A presto, Roma e Ravenna! -Charles R & Camilla R.”
Diplomatic Reset at “Historic Moment”
The four-day state visit comes at what UK Ambassador Lord Llewellyn described as an “historic” moment for UK-European relations. “This state visit comes at a key moment, as we reset our relations with our European partners,” explained the ambassador, highlighting the importance of reinforcing links with European allies in the post-Brexit landscape.
Against a backdrop of international uncertainty, including economic and diplomatic challenges from US President Donald Trump’s administration, the royal tour represents a significant diplomatic effort. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is accompanying the King, underlining the visit’s political importance beyond mere ceremony.
Military Ties and Economic Partnerships
Lord Llewellyn emphasised the strengthening military cooperation between the UK and Italy, which he described as “vital in a changing Europe, as both our countries stand steadfast in our support for Ukraine.” This security dimension adds substance to what might otherwise appear as simply ceremonial.
The economic relationship is equally significant – Italy stands as the UK’s ninth largest trading partner. This economic link, coupled with Italy’s popularity as a tourist destination for Britons, creates a natural foundation for deepening ties between the two nations.
Cultural Diplomacy and “Royal Fever”
Reports of “royal fever” have already emerged in the Italian media, where the couple are affectionately referred to as “Carlo and Camilla.” The Italian public reportedly values the royal couple’s genuine enthusiasm for Italian history, culture, and cuisine – a sentiment echoed by Ambassador Llewellyn: “Their love for Italy… and all things Italian resonate deeply here.”
The culture-loving royals’ itinerary reflects this focus on cultural connections. Over their three days in Rome, they will visit the iconic Colosseum, witness a joint Italian-UK airforce flypast, and learn about Italy’s renowned slow food movement. Later, they’ll visit the historic city of Ravenna, with connections to literary giants Dante and Lord Byron.
In a significant honor, King Charles will become the first British monarch to address both houses of Italy’s parliament.
Vatican Visit Postponed
The state visit was originally planned to include the Vatican, where the King had been scheduled to attend a service in the Sistine Chapel. This portion was postponed due to Pope Francis’s recent health issues. Although the Pope appears to be recovering – having appeared in St. Peter’s Square over the weekend – no private meeting is currently planned, though speculation suggests both sides would welcome such an opportunity if possible.
Anniversary Celebration at Quirinale Palace
The evening of the couple’s actual wedding anniversary on Wednesday will be marked by a state banquet at the Quirinale Palace. This glamorous affair will feature celebrities and politicians on the guest list, with a menu showcasing Italy’s world-famous cuisine.
The royal couple has already begun celebrating their milestone anniversary. Before departing for Italy, they hosted an Italian-themed dinner at the King’s Highgrove estate in Gloucestershire. The star-studded guest list included film stars Stanley Tucci and Helen Mirren, along with former football icon David Beckham.
King’s Health Following “Bump in the Road”
The intensive schedule of engagements comes after what royal sources described as a “bump in the road” for the King’s health. He recently experienced a brief hospital stay after suffering side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment. However, the monarch recovered sufficiently to resume public duties last week, allowing the Italian trip to proceed as planned.
Canadian Connection in Ravenna
The itinerary includes a thoughtful acknowledgment of King Charles’s role as monarch of multiple nations. The visit to Ravenna will specifically honor Canadian forces who helped liberate Italy 80 years ago during World War II. This recognition is particularly meaningful given the current diplomatic challenges facing Canada under pressure from the Trump administration.
Scottish Whisky Diplomacy
In a subtle nod to trade concerns, the trip includes promotion of Scottish whisky at a food festival in Ravenna, where it will be paired with Italian parmesan cheese. This element gains significance as Scottish whisky producers face potential US tariffs, adding a practical economic dimension to the cultural exchange.
A “Meaningful and Broad Legacy”
Ambassador Lord Llewellyn expressed confidence that the royal visit would leave a “meaningful and broad legacy.” The mix of soft-power diplomacy, cultural appreciation, and anniversary celebration creates a multifaceted visit that serves both symbolic and practical diplomatic purposes.
Reflecting on the royal couple’s arrival at Ciampino airport, where they were greeted by Italian government officials and a guard of honor in late afternoon sunshine, the ambassador highlighted the “intangible but priceless” impact of such high-profile royal visits.
As they mark two decades of marriage amid the splendor of Rome, King Charles and Queen Camilla are strengthening bonds between nations while celebrating their personal milestone – blending public duty with private joy in quintessentially royal fashion.