Monarch Moves Crowd During Tree-Planting Ceremony on Final Day of Italy Visit
King Charles III touched hearts with a poignant remark about life and legacy as he planted a tree in Rome on the last day of his official visit to Italy.
The 76-year-old monarch, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment, expressed a heartfelt wish during a ceremony at Villa Wolkonsky, the British ambassador's residence. After placing an oak sapling in the ground, Charles joked warmly, “Well I do hope that I shall live long enough to see a little bit of growth in the tree,” drawing emotional reactions from those in attendance.
The moment marked the close of a four-day visit to Italy with Queen Camilla, which also coincided with the royal couple’s 20th wedding anniversary.
Despite continuing treatment, the King remained in good spirits, addressing members of the embassy with his usual charm. His ongoing cancer battle was first disclosed in February 2024, following treatment for an enlarged prostate. While the Palace has not revealed the exact diagnosis, it was confirmed that it is not prostate cancer, and treatment would extend into 2025.
The tree-planting served as a commemorative gesture and left many supporters deeply moved, with messages of support and prayers for the King's health circulating widely following his heartfelt comment.
