Representing The King, The Prince of Wales attended the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. This act continues a royal tradition; in 2005, Prince Charles (heir to the throne at the time) represented Elizabeth II at Pope John Paul II’s funeral.
Prince William joined other Heads of State and Royals in attending the funeral, including Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco, King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain and Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg. The Prince of Wales was seated alongside Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following complications from a stroke and heart failure. His funeral was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
King Charles and Queen Camilla had met with Pope Francis just 12 days prior to his passing during their state visit to Italy. In a statement following the Pope’s death, King Charles expressed deep sorrow, commending Pope Francis’s compassion, dedication to unity, and environmental advocacy.
King Charles and Queen Camilla met the Pope during their Italian State Visit. (Royal Family)
Prince William’s attendance at the funeral underscores his growing role in royal duties and international diplomacy. Recently, he represented the Monarchy at the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral alongside global leaders and became the first member of the Royal Family to meet with the US President following his election win.
