Union flags lowered and solemn music played as royal residences mourn late pontiff
King Charles, Prince William, and other senior royals have paid tribute to Pope Francis by observing a time-honoured royal tradition following the pontiff’s death at the age of 88.
Union flags have been lowered to half-mast across royal residences, marking a traditional gesture of mourning. According to GB News, the ceremonial Change of the Guard also featured sombre music in reflection of the global loss.
In a moving statement, King Charles said he and Queen Camilla were “most deeply saddened” to learn of the Pope’s passing, commending his “compassion” and “tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith.” The King also described their recent meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican earlier this month as a “deeply moving experience.”
Pope Francis’s body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, with his funeral expected in the coming days. Italy has declared a nine-day mourning period, and world leaders, including a likely representative from the British Royal Family, are expected to attend the funeral. Speculation suggests Prince William may be selected to represent the monarchy, as his father did at Pope John Paul II’s funeral in 2005.
Following the funeral, attention will shift to the conclave in the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals will gather to elect the next pope. The royal family's tribute underscores the international impact of Pope Francis’s legacy and his role as a unifying spiritual leader.
