Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88, just weeks after holding a surprising and “special” meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla during their visit to Italy.

The Vatican confirmed the Pope’s death on Monday, April 21. As the leader of the Catholic Church, his passing marks a significant moment for millions of followers around the world.

Earlier this month, the royal couple met with the Pope at the Vatican as part of their official trip to Italy, which also marked their 20th wedding anniversary.

Prior to that, Pope Francis had been recovering from a serious case of pneumonia and had recently spent five weeks in hospital.

However, sources report that he personally invited Charles, 76, and Camilla, 77, for the meeting after their initial plans had to be rescheduled.

King Charles and Queen Camilla’s ‘special’ moment with the Pope during Italy trip

On April 10, the royal family’s official social media accounts shared a touching photo from Their Majesties’ private audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican, captioned: “Che occasione speciale!”

“A special moment for Their Majesties as they privately met His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican yesterday. The king and queen were deeply touched by the Pope’s kind remarks about their 20th wedding anniversary and honoured to be able to share their best wishes to him in person.”

In the image, both King Charles and Queen Camilla are dressed in black, a traditional choice for such a formal occasion. Queen Camilla is seen leaning forward to greet the Pope warmly, while King Charles stands beside her holding a red box—presumably a gift for His Holiness.

During their meeting, Pope Francis offered warm wishes to the couple for their anniversary and exchanged gifts with them, marking a memorable moment in the royal couple’s Italian trip.

Following the visit, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson shared: “Their Majesties were delighted The Pope was well enough to host them – and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person.”

This intimate meeting came amid earlier concerns that the encounter might be postponed due to the Pope needing rest, according to previous reports.

Pope Francis Has Passed Away, Vatican Confirms

On Easter Monday, April 21, the Vatican released an official announcement confirming the passing of Pope Francis.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the news with a heartfelt message. The statement said: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

“At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

The message went on to say: “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

His passing marks the end of a deeply impactful papacy, defined by humility, compassion, and a commitment to social justice.

Pope Francis’ Last Public Appearance Before His Passing

At the time of his meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla, Pope Francis was in recovery from a severe case of double pneumonia.

He had been discharged from the hospital on March 23, after spending five weeks fighting the life-threatening illness that had affected both lungs.

On Easter Sunday, April 20, the Pope made what would be his final public appearance—attending a blessing at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.

King Charles, too, has been dealing with health challenges over the past year. He remains in treatment for cancer and recently experienced a minor setback, which required a short stay in the hospital.

The King reportedly faced “temporary side-effects” from the treatment, prompting the palace to delay his official duties briefly. Fortunately, the issue was described as “minor,” and he was able to resume his responsibilities just a week later.

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