September 27, 2025 – King Charles and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom will make a long-awaited state visit to the Holy See next month, Buckingham Palace announced on Saturday. This visit had initially been scheduled for April but had to be postponed due to the failing health of the late Pope Francis.
At the time, the royals had been scheduled to visit the Vatican as part of a broader tour of Italy, but medical advice advised delaying the trip after Pope Francis was instructed to rest. However, they did manage to have a private meeting with the pope before his death, becoming some of the last dignitaries to see him.
The upcoming visit will take place in October and will include a meeting with Pope Leo XIV. This marks a significant occasion, as the visit coincides with the 2025 Catholic Holy Year celebrations. Buckingham Palace confirmed that the trip would also highlight the ecumenical work between the Church of England and the Catholic Church, reflecting the ongoing dialogue between the two denominations.
In addition to their meeting with Pope Leo XIV, reports suggest that the visit will include a tour of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, one of the most iconic sites in the world, known for its Michelangelo ceiling.
King Charles, as the supreme governor of the Church of England—which famously separated from Rome in 1534—has had a longstanding relationship with the Vatican. He has previously met with Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI during his reign. This upcoming visit underscores the significance of both the royal family’s and the Church’s commitment to fostering religious and diplomatic ties between the two faiths.
About the Author
