The King and Queen have officially arrived in Vatican City. They are here for a highly anticipated audience with Pope Leo XIV. This meeting marks the start of their state visit to the Holy See.
The royal couple’s motorcade entered St. Peter’s Square. Visitors traditionally gather here to see the Pope. Then they continue to San Damask Courtyard — the ceremonial gateway to the Apostolic Palace, the Pope’s official residence.
Reverend Monsignor Leonardo Sapient, Regent of the Prefecture of the Papal Household, received them. An honor guard formed by the Vatican’s renowned Swiss Guard accompanied him. The elite corps, composed of Swiss Catholic citizens, has served as the Pope’s personal security for centuries.
The national anthems of the United Kingdom and Vatican City were played. The King and Queen stood solemnly. Then, they greeted a group of Papal Gentlemen.
The Queen wore a traditional black silk dress by designer Fiona Clare, paired with a mantilla veil by Philip Tracy. She completed the look with the late Queen’s iconic “raspberry pip” cross brooch.
The ceremonial welcome was followed by an escort into the Apostolic Palace. The royal couple had a private audience with Pope Leo XIV. The visit carries deep personal significance for the King. It coincides with the celebration of the Papal Jubilee, held every 25 years.
The King will participate in an ecumenical service at the Sistine Chapel later today. In his role as Supreme Governor of the Church of England, he will make history. He will be the first British monarch since the Reformation to join the Pope in public prayer.
This meeting marks a new chapter in interfaith dialogue between the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church. It highlights the royal family’s commitment to fostering unity. The gathering also emphasises mutual respect among Christian communities worldwide.
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