Inside King Charles’s last meeting with Pope Francis just 13 days before his death

It was announced on Monday morning that Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88 following his lengthy battle with pneumonia. Vatican camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell said: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.”

Despite his struggles, the Pope continued to work and devote his life to service in his final days, even finding the strength to receive King Charles and Queen Camilla during their State Visit to Italy just 13 days ago. While a meeting was originally planned, it was mutually decided to postpone it following the Pope's illness.

However, it came as a delight to see that the King and Queen were able to meet the Holy Father in a secret meeting during their tour.

The meeting, which took place on 10 April, saw the royal couple both wear black, as is protocol to meet the pointiff, with the Queen bending to greet him and the King stood clutching a red box.

At the time, the Pope didn't appear to be wearing an oxygen tube, after he had previously been pictured wearing one after a surprise appearance at St Peter's Square.

News of the meeting was later released with a Buckingham Palace spokesperson saying: "Their Majesties were delighted The Pope was well enough to host them - and to have had the opportunity to share their best wishes in person."

Following the death of Pope Francis, the Vatican’s camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Ferrell said: “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,″ Cardinal Farrell said in the announcement.

“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.”