King Charles and Queen Camilla have bowed out in style at the end of a State Visit that turned into a sparkling success.
The final part of their trip to Italy was spent in Ravenna where big crowds turned out to see them as they got a taste, quite literally, of la dolce vita.
(Foto di Francesco Ammendola – Ufficio Stampa per la Stampa e la Comunicazione della Presidenza della Repubblica)
The focus of this fourth day was ‘slow food’ and a chance to try some of the most celebrated dishes of Ravenna and the Emilia-Romagna region.
The King was offered one of the area’s most famous success stories to try – balsamic vinegar – and savoured it like a pro. He was also offered some parmigiano reggiano cheese as he met producers on a sunny spring day in Ravenna.
(Foto d Paolo Giandotti – Ufficio Stampa per la Stampa e la Comunicazione della Presidenza della Repubblica)
Queen Camilla, however, was in more practical mood and happily joined in a demonstration of fresh pasta making, rolling out the dough and tackling the cutting and all in the middle of a big group of wellwishers hoping to catch a glimpse of some royal cuisine.
The King and Queen also joined commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the area from Nazi occupation by British and Canadian troops.
The final day of the State Visit also saw The Queen visit the Byron Museum which is dedicated to the story of the famous poet’s life in Italy, a country he loved. Queen Camilla also focused on her own great passion, literacy, as she met members of local book clubs and libraries.
(Royal Family/ Instagram)
King Charles toured the Basilica of San Vitale as he was given an overview of an ancient craft still thriving in Ravenna – mosaic making. He saw some of the 5th and 6th century masterpieces in the Basilica and also visited the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
Arts and crafts of a more practical kind were also on offer for The King who was shown a mosaic depicting his Coronation. His Majesty was asked to place the last piece in the display which represents him and Queen Camilla in their crowns.
(Ufficio per la Stampa e la Comunicazione della Presidenza della Repubblica)
President Sergio Mattarella and his daughter, Laura, were at The King and Queen’s sides throughout the day and joined them on the balcony overlooking the piazza where a large crowd had gathered. There was a warm reception as the royal visitors made an appearance at the end of what’s been a highly successful State Visit.
The State Visit to Italy came to an end at Forli airport where, after an official farewell, President Mattarella waved off King Charles and Queen Camilla.
During the visit, which also saw The King and Queen celebrate their twentieth wedding anniversary, His Majesty spoke often of his fondness for Italy. No doubt, a return is already being lined up in the royal diary.
