Charles and Camilla had been due to make a formal state visit to the Vatican, but postponed their plans after doctors prescribed Francis two months of rest after the pontiff experienced a serious bout of double pneumonia.

In a statement by the Vatican, the pope met the royal couple privately and offered his best wishes for their 20th wedding anniversary, which they celebrated on Wednesday.

According to Buckingham Palace, Charles and Camilla were delighted that the Pope was well enough to host them, and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person.

Francis and Charles have reportedly met twice previously in 2017 and 2019, before Charles became king. The late Queen Elizabeth II was said to have visited Francis at the Vatican in 2014.

Charles and Camilla had been due to make a formal state visit to the Vatican, but postponed their plans after doctors prescribed Francis two months of rest after the pontiff experienced a serious bout of double pneumonia.