God. The Italian sun is unforgiving, even in spring. I kept thinking this as I watched King Charles and Queen Camilla power through a marathon day in Rome yesterday that would've knocked me flat after hour two.
I've covered royal tours since 2018, and let me tell you - this one had me sweating bullets for Charles. The man is battling cancer, for heaven's sake, and there he was, climbing 44 stone steps at teh Tomb of the Unknown Soldier without breaking stride. My editor bet me $20 he'd need assistance. (I won that one, thankfully. Coffee's on him tomorrow.)
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Those Planes Though!
Their day kicked off with what might be the most spectacular aerial show I've seen in years. The Red Arrows and the Italian Frecce Tricolori painted the sky above the Quirinale Palace while Charles, Camilla, President Mattarella and his daughter Laura watched from the balcony.
Charles, ever the diplomat, mentioned through an interpreter: "This is my 18th visit here." President Mattarella responded with what seemed like genuine warmth, "And I remember having you here at the Quirinale before on your visits to Rome."
I mean... can you imagine remembering every dignitary who's passed through your palace? Either Mattarella has a photographic memory or his staff deserves a raise.
Wait, did he really just walk all those steps?
Listen. When you've been following someone's cancer journey through press releases and carefully staged photo ops, seeing them tackle a monument's worth of steps hits differently. Charles has been receiving treatment for over a year now, and there was genuine concern about how he'd manage this trip.
But there he went.
Eight solid hours of engagements across Rome, from 10:30am to 6:30pm, in that Italian spring heat that feels more like summer to us Brits. The kind that makes you regret every clothing choice you've made that morning.
The Colosseum Moment That Nobody Expected
The royal couple posed at the 2,000-year-old Colosseum, which always makes for dramatic photos. (My photographer colleague was practically giddy about the lighting). What wasn't in the official schedule was how long Charles spent shaking hands with well-wishers who'd been waiting for hours.
One elderly Italian woman grabbed his hand and wouldn't let go for nearly a minute while telling him something that made him laugh out loud. His security looked... concerned.
I feel stupid now for assuming this would be a scaled-back, low-energy tour. Despite the Pope's health issues forcing them to postpone the Vatican City portion, they still managed four separate engagements spread across Rome.
Medals and Pleasantries... and a Little Bit of Royal Awkwardness
There was the usual exchange of honors – both received the Order of Merit of the Republic of Italy, while Charles presented Mattarella with the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath.
Charles' comment about the honor was peak Charles: "It goes back quite a long way. It's just a token, really, of our appreciation, you've served for so long."
Just a token? The man was giving away one of Britain's highest orders of chivalry like it was a souvenir keychain. Poor Mattarella (who's 83, by the way) just smiled politely.
I spent $4K of my news outlet's money following this royal circus around Rome yesterday, and I'm still not sure if Charles is genuinely doing well or if he's just phenomenally good at putting on a brave face. His staff insists he's responding well to treatment... but they would say that, wouldn't they?
The Elephant Not in Rome
Nobody mentioned Harry. Not once. I asked a palace aide about whether the King had been in contact with his younger son before the trip. His response: "already updating my resume if you print anything about that." Touchy subject, apparently.
Tomorrow they're scheduled for more engagements, and I'll be trailing behind them like a ghost at a family reunion – present but not exactly welcome. Such is the life of a royal correspondent.
...And yes, I'm already wondering what sunscreen to wear. These Italian spring days are killers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the financial aspects of royalty?
The financial aspects of royalty can include income from state funds, personal investments, and inherited wealth. Some royal families also own extensive properties and assets that contribute to their financial status.
What is the significance of royal titles?
Royal titles signify rank and status within the hierarchy of a royal family. They can also reflect the history and traditions of a nation, with titles such as king, queen, duke, and duchess carrying specific cultural meanings and responsibilities.
Are there any countries without a royal family?
Yes, many countries operate as republics without a royal family. These nations typically have elected leaders and do not maintain a hereditary monarchy, although some may have historical ties to royalty.
What are some famous royal families in history?
Some famous royal families include the British Royal Family, the House of Windsor, the House of Bourbon in France, and the Romanov family in Russia. Each has significantly influenced their respective nations and history.
What is royalty?
Royalty refers to individuals who are members of a royal family, holding specific titles and privileges, often associated with governance and ceremonial roles within a state or nation. This includes kings, queens, princes, and princesses.
What are the different types of royalty?
There are several types of royalty, including constitutional monarchs who have limited powers defined by a constitution, absolute monarchs who hold complete authority, and ceremonial monarchs who perform symbolic duties without governing powers.
Are royal families involved in politics?
The level of political involvement varies by country. In constitutional monarchies, royals may have ceremonial roles without political power, while in absolute monarchies, they may wield significant influence over governance.
Statistics
- About 90% of monarchies today are constitutional, where the monarch's powers are limited by law or a constitution.
- In Spain, the monarchy was restored in 1975 after the dictatorship of Francisco Franco, and the current king, Felipe VI, ascended to the throne in 2014.
- The British Royal Family, one of the most recognized royal families, has an estimated annual expenditure of around £100 million.
- Royal families often have extensive wealth, with estimates suggesting that the House of Windsor is worth over £500 million.
- In Thailand, the monarchy is deeply respected, with laws that prohibit criticism of the royal family, making it one of the strictest in the world regarding royal defamation.
- Research indicates that public support for monarchy in the UK remains strong, with around 70% of the population favoring the institution.
- The royal family of Japan is the oldest continuing hereditary monarchy in the world, with a history that dates back over 1,500 years.
- Public engagements and charitable work by royal family members have been shown to improve public perceptions of the monarchy, as seen in various surveys across Europe.
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How To Understand the Historical Significance of Royal Families
To understand the historical significance of royal families, begin by studying key events and figures in their histories. Analyze how monarchies have influenced political systems, social structures, and cultural developments over time. Explore various historical periods, such as the Middle Ages or the Renaissance, to see how royal families navigated challenges, formed alliances, and shaped nations. Utilize books, documentaries, and academic articles that delve into royal history for a comprehensive view. Engaging with historical exhibitions or visiting royal palaces can also provide valuable insights into the legacy of these families.
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