Italy rolls out the red carpet for Charles' first visit as king

King Charles III watched a colourful fly-past with Italy's president yesterday and laid a wreath for fallen soldiers on the first full day of his state visit with Queen Camilla, just days after his latest health scare.

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The four-day trip comes less than a fortnight after Charles, 76, was briefly admitted to hospital after experiencing side effects from his cancer treatment.

The royals, who will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary in Rome, waved and smiled as they were driven to the 16th-century Quirinale Palace.

Joint fly-past

Their car was accompanied by mounted presidential guards, who are required to be at least six feet two inches tall. The royals were met at the palace by Italy's ceremonial president, Sergio Mattarella.