King Charles and Queen Camilla received a warm ceremonial welcome hosted by the president of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, as their state visit to Italy began.
The royal couple landed on Monday, where they met British and Italian ambassadors. For the second day of their trip, Charles and Camilla met with Italian president Sergio Mattarella and his daughter, Laura, for a ceremonial occasion at the Quirinale Palace.
The foursome stood still as they observed the British and Italian national anthems played by a military band. Nearby lined up along a red carpet stood a guard of honour formed of the Quirinale Band, troops from the Italian army, navy and air force, the Carabinieri and mounted Corazzieri guards.
Charles performed an inspection of the guard and also enjoyed a flypast by both the Red Arrows and Italy’s Frecce Tricolori.
Charles, accompanied by the president, walked along the line casting an eye over the service personnel who stood in three ranks and, at one point, paused to bow his head when he reached Italy’s national flag held aloft.
© GettyKing Charles and Queen Camilla have enjoyed a warm ceremonial welcome in Rome
© GettyKing Charles and Queen Camilla at the Quirinale Palace in Rome
© GettyMr Mattarella was joined by his daughter Laura Mattarella, who acts in a first lady role as the president’s wife died a number of years ago
© GettyCharles walked along the line of troops from the Italian army, navy and air force
© GettyThe group went inside, and before the president and the king sat down for talks, a demonstration of UK and Italian military co-operation was staged.
Also on their visit today is a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a visit to Rome’s iconic Colosseum, where they will learn about the country’s cultural heritage and restoration work on the monument.
The day will conclude with a reception held at the British embassy in Italy, where Charles will meet with representatives from the British-Italian community.
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