The pope has faced several health challenges in recent years, including knee problems requiring a wheelchair, respiratory infections, and a fall resulting in a forearm contusion.

Due to a fresh bout of bronchitis, something he has experienced with increasing regularity, Pope Francis has decided to move his official meetings to his residence, rather than the more formal setting of the Vatican’s apostolic palace.

Before the state visits to Italy and the Vatican, the King and Queen will join Hollywood star Stanley Tucci for a black tie dinner celebrating Italian cuisine at Highgrove.

King Charles and Queen Camilla will pay a state visit to Italy and the Holy See in early April and will meet Pope Francis to mark celebrations for 2025 Catholic Holy Year, Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday.

Their Majesties The King and Queen will undertake State Visits to the Holy See and the Republic of Italy in early April 2025,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement. “During Their Majesties’ State visit to the Holy See,

King Charles and Queen Camilla will undertake State Visits to Italy and the Holy See in early April 2025, Buckingham Palace has confirmed. The royal couple's diplomatic journey will include official engagements in both the Vatican City and the Italian Republic.