Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko visited the Tokyo Metropolitan Memorial Hall on Thursday to honor victims of the 1945 Tokyo Air Raids and the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. The visit concludes a series of commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla undertook a historic state visit to the Vatican on October 23, 2025, including an audience with Pope Leo XIV and an ecumenical prayer in the Sistine Chapel. This marked the first time a British monarch publicly prayed with a Pope since the Reformation, symbolizing a significant step in Anglican-Catholic relations.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla have commenced a two-day state visit to the Holy See, marking a historic moment as the first British monarch in 500 years to pray publicly with a Pope. They met with Pope Leo XIV and participated in an ecumenical service focused on Christian unity and environmental care.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced a HUF 40 billion agreement with OTP Bank for the extensive, nine-year restoration of the Gödöllő Royal Palace. The project, equally funded by the state and OTP Bank, aims to revive the historic landmark, a former residence of Queen Elisabeth, to its 19th-century grandeur, covering 17,000 square meters of the estate.
Spain marks its National Day, Día de la Hispanidad, on October 12 with a prominent military parade in Madrid, presided over by the Royal Family, and a variety of cultural events nationwide, commemorating the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492.
Princess Caroline of Hanover was elevated to the Grand Cross of the National Order of Merit, while Princess Stéphanie of Monaco was appointed Officer of the Legion of Honour on October 6, 2025. The French distinctions recognize their extensive humanitarian, cultural, and social contributions, presented at the Prince's Palace in Monaco.
Luxembourg witnessed a historic transfer of power on October 3, 2025, as Grand Duke Henri, 70, abdicated after a 25-year reign. His eldest son, Grand Duke Guillaume, 43, was sworn in as the new monarch in ceremonies attended by European royals and dignitaries, marking a new era for the Grand Duchy.
Hereditary Prince Alois of Liechtenstein recently welcomed twelve extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors to Vaduz Castle. The diplomatic ceremony, which took place on October 25, 2024, involved the formal presentation of credentials, signifying the official establishment of their diplomatic missions to the Principality.
Former royal butler Grant Harrold suggests that Prince William's children won't become working royals until their twenties, prioritizing a normal childhood for them. This modern approach allows the children flexibility in their future roles, focusing on their well-being over traditional expectations.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson reportedly sought revenge against King Charles following critical comments over his controversial Rwanda asylum plan. The tension highlighted the diplomatic struggles between the monarchy and the government, as Johnson attempted to maintain his political stance while managing personal grievances.
Prince Harry is shifting his focus towards charity work as he seeks reconciliation with his father, King Charles, according to royal author Ingrid Seward. With the Invictus Games set for 2027 in Birmingham, Harry hopes his father will attend and is optimistic about rebuilding his life despite the ongoing challenges with his royal family ties.
King Charles has shown deep affection for his grandchildren while harboring anxiety about the implications of Prince William and Princess Kate's first child being a girl. In Valentine Low's book, "Power and the Palace," it is revealed that Charles was particularly worried about the future of the monarchy and the royal house name if William's firstborn was a daughter.
A former Royal Editor suggests the Duchess of Sussex may face difficult choices if Prince Harry reconciles with his family, potentially needing to decide between accompanying him to the UK or staying away. Recent reports indicate possible efforts toward reconciliation between Prince Harry and King Charles, with the WellChild awards presenting a poignant opportunity for a meeting.
Prince William reportedly views a potential meeting with his brother Harry as a "terrible idea," though he respects his father's decision-making regarding the interaction. Both William and King Charles have remained silent on the matter, amidst a reportedly strained relationship between the King and Harry.
A friend of Prince William has criticized King Charles for his handling of Prince Harry and Prince Andrew, suggesting the King is weak in his approach to both sons. Harry is due in London for a charity event, and a potential meeting with his father could further strain relationships within the Royal Family.
King Charles is initiating a redesign project for the gardens at Windsor Castle, aiming for a stunning aerial view. The King hopes to enhance the public's experience and views of the gardens, which have historical significance and were previously tended by royals like Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
King Charles interrupted his Scottish holiday to award Princess Anne's husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, the Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, the highest honour within the order. This recognition acknowledges Sir Timothy's years of service and his vital role supporting the Princess Royal, despite not being a working royal.
Despite being a teenager at the time of his parents' divorce, Prince William displayed remarkable wisdom and compassion, especially towards his mother, Princess Diana. He promised to restore her HRH title one day when he became king, a vow that deeply moved Diana, although he never had the chance to fulfill it following her untimely death.
Prince William reportedly continues to refuse any meetings with his brother, Prince Harry, despite Harry's upcoming visit to the UK to meet their father, King Charles, in September. A source indicated that reconciliation may be possible, but trust issues must be addressed before any significant progress can be made between the brothers.
JJ, who lost a part of his right arm in a 2011 bombing that killed two fellow Royal Marines, has unexpectedly stepped down from his trustee role at Invictus Games, although he will remain involved in an ambassadorial capacity. This news comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding his related charity, Sentebale, which has recently faced scrutiny from the Charity Commission.
