King Charles and Queen Camilla are currently in Rome for an official audience with Pope Leo — their first meeting with the new pontiff since his election.
The encounter marks a historic milestone: King Charles has become the first British monarch to pray with a pope since King Henry VIII’s break with Rome nearly 500 years ago. The meeting is seen as a symbolic gesture of unity and reconciliation after centuries of religious and political tension between the British crown and the Vatican.
For much of history, relations between Britain and the Holy See were marked by conflict — from the English Reformation and religious persecution to wars and dynastic struggles that saw one monarch dethroned partly over fears of a Catholic succession. Yet in recent decades, ties have steadily warmed, culminating in this landmark royal visit.
Queen Camilla’s Outfit and the ‘Privilege of White’
During the meeting, Queen Camilla observed papal protocol by wearing a black dress and a lace mantilla — the traditional attire for women meeting the pope. According to Vatican custom, women are expected to wear black, modest clothing with a head covering.
Only a select few Catholic royal women are granted what’s known as il privilegio del bianco — the privilege of wearing white during papal audiences. Camilla, who is not Catholic, does not have that right.
Currently, only seven women in the world may wear white when meeting the pope: Princess Charlene of Monaco, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Queen Letizia of Spain, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg, and Princess Marina of Naples. Two former queens — Queen Sofia of Spain and Queen Paola of Belgium — also retain the privilege.
A Moment of Faith and Diplomacy
Pope Leo was elected following the death of Pope Francis, and this visit is expected to strengthen diplomatic and spiritual ties between the United Kingdom and the Vatican. King Charles, who serves as Supreme Governor of the Church of England, will join the pontiff in prayer — a gesture rich with historical symbolism given the centuries-old division between their churches.
The royal couple’s audience with Pope Leo also coincides with the opening of the Papal Jubilee, a sacred event held once every 25 years. Their participation underscores the ongoing bridge-building between two of the world’s most enduring institutions — the British monarchy and the Catholic Church.
