Royal couple marks 20 years of marriage with heartfelt words from Rome
King Charles and Queen Camilla have kicked off their historic tour of Italy with a deeply personal message to mark a special moment in their lives — their 20th wedding anniversary.
As they began their first official visit to Italy as monarchs on Monday, the royal couple shared a warm statement from Rome, where they will carry out engagements until Thursday. The milestone anniversary adds an emotional layer to the state visit, which includes stops in both Rome and Ravenna.
Two newly released photographs of the smiling pair accompanied their message, which read:
“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!”
The statement was personally signed by both royals: “Charles R & Camilla R.”
Originally, the tour was to include a visit to the Vatican and a meeting with Pope Francis, but that segment was cancelled due to the Pope’s current health condition. As a result, the royal itinerary has been adjusted, giving the King and Queen a slightly lighter schedule with more time at each engagement.
The visit comes shortly after King Charles returned to public duties following treatment for cancer, making this both a personal and symbolic occasion for the monarch and his wife as they reflect on two decades of partnership and public service.
