King Charles has issued an apology during his historic speech at the Italian Parliament.
Charles made history by becoming the first British monarch to address both houses of Italy's parliament: the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate of the Republic.
His majesty delivered a few parts of the monologue in Italian, in which he confessed that Britishers have been hugely “influenced” from Italian’s outfits, drinks and foods.
He said, "Nearly a third of Shakespeare’s plays were set here in Italy, just as Italian artists have drawn inspiration from the Bard. And we have benefitted hugely from your influence over what we wear, what we drink and what we eat.”
While issuing the heartfelt apology, the King stated, "I can only hope you will forgive us for occasionally corrupting your wonderful cuisine! We do so with the greatest possible affection... So we are two peoples, and two nations, whose stories are deeply intertwined – including, of course, with that of our European continent.”
His majesty also expressed gratitude for the invitation to address the parliament.
"Above all, it is a signal honour to have been asked to speak to you all this afternoon – the first time that a British Sovereign has addressed the entire Italian Parliament, this fundamental democratic institution. Italy is, as I hope you know a country very dear to my heart and that of The Queen,” Charles noted.
To note, the monarch and Queen Camilla also celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9, 2025.
