Queen Camilla Delighted by Pizza Surprise Outside Rome School on 20th Anniversary
April 9, 2025 – Rome, Italy – Queen Camilla was greeted with an unexpected and heartwarming gesture on Tuesday as she exited the Alessandro Manzoni Elementary School in Rome: a freshly baked pizza offered by local families. The charming moment, captured during her and King Charles III’s state visit to Italy, coincided with the royal couple’s 20th wedding anniversary, adding a festive twist to their busy diplomatic schedule.
The Queen, radiant in a navy ensemble, had just finished a tour of the school, where she met with students and teachers to mark the milestone occasion. As she stepped outside, a small crowd of parents, children, and onlookers cheered, presenting her with anniversary cards—and the pizza. “What a beauty, I could eat it right now!” Camilla exclaimed with a wide smile, her playful remark drawing laughter from the gathered families and journalists. Though royal protocol likely prevented her from indulging on the spot, the gesture underscored the warm welcome the royals have received in Italy.
The visit to Alessandro Manzoni was part of a packed second day in Rome, following a morning tour of the Colosseum, where excited schoolchildren shouted, “He’s coming, that’s the King!” as the royal convoy arrived. Later, Camilla and Charles, who celebrate their 20th anniversary today, attended a reception at Villa Wolkonsky, mingling with the British-Italian community. The pizza moment, however, stole the spotlight, with posts on X buzzing about the Queen’s delight and the locals’ hospitality.
This state visit, the first international trip of 2025 for Charles and Camilla amid his ongoing cancer treatment, highlights their use of “soft power” diplomacy to strengthen UK-Italy ties. Earlier, the couple posed for anniversary photos at Villa Wolkonsky, with Camilla in a white and beige coat dress and Charles in a sharp suit, exuding joy despite a postponed Vatican visit due to Pope Francis’ health.
The pizza offering—reported by ANSA Terra e Gusto—epitomized Italy’s culinary charm and the affection shown to the royals. “It’s a perfect anniversary treat,” said Maria Rossi, a parent at the scene. “We wanted to share something special with her.” As the couple prepares for further engagements in Ravenna, this lighthearted exchange will surely remain a highlight of their Italian journey, blending royal duty with a slice of local life.
