The President of Germany has paid a private visit to the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II as the second day of his State Visit got under way.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier left flowers on the grave in the King George VI Chapel inside St. George’s Chapel during a time of reflection there with his wife, Elke Budenbender.
The tomb is rarely photographed and is usually only seen up close by visitors to St. George’s Chapel.
It has become usual, too, for visiting Heads of State to pay their own tributes there. In July, President Emmanuel Macron of France laid flowers there and in September, US leader Donald Trump, also made a private visit to put a wreath on the tomb.
The tribute from President Steinmeier came after a successful start to his State Visit which is being hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.
The German President was given a ceremonial welcome which saw him enjoy a carriage ride, in the Irish State Coach, though Windsor to the castle, accompanied by The King.
The Queen and Elke Budenbender followed in the Australian State Coach which had earlier been spotted in Windsor during rehearsals carried out by the military who put on such a spectacular show during the opening day.
Inside Windsor Castle, President Steinmeier inspected a Guard of Honour before being welcomed to lunch by the Royal Family. They all later enjoyed a tour of artefacts from the Royal Collection linked to Germany.
The State Banquet in the evening saw a host of famous German faces, including model Claudia Schiffer, join The King and Queen as well as the German leader and his wife.
The Royal Family, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and the Princess Royal, were present.
The Princess of Wales surprised many by wearing a tiara usually only used by queens. The Circlet tiara was designed by Prince Albert and belongs to the Crown.
The second day of the State Visit will see President Steinmeier visit Westminster as well as east London where he will tour the V&A Storehouse.
On the third day, he is going to Coventry where he is expected to be joined by the Duke of Kent for a memorial service at the cathedral.
