The King and Queen have had a private meeting with the Pope at the Vatican.
Buckingham Palace said Charles and Camilla were “delighted” that the pontiff was “well enough to host them – and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person”.
A statement from the Vatican said Francis shared “his best wishes” with the couple as they celebrate 20 years of marriage today.
He also “reciprocated his wishes to His Majesty for a speedy recovery of his health,” it added.
The King and Queen’s state visit to Italy had been due to include an official stop at the Vatican, but this was postponed after the Pope’s recent five-week stay in hospital, where he battled a life-threatening bout of double pneumonia.
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King and Queen visit Rome landmarks
It is understood today’s private audience – which included an exchange of gifts – was subject to the Pope’s health and only confirmed this morning.
The 20-minute meeting is said to have taken place after the King and Queen returned from parliament, where Charles delivered an historic speech in Italian.
The Pope has made one official appearance since leaving hospital a fortnight ago. Pic: AP
Discussions about Charles and Camilla making their official state visit to the Holy See are ongoing, it is understood.
The Pope, 88, appeared before cheering crowds at the Vatican over the weekend – his first official appearance since he was released from hospital a fortnight ago.
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