Queen Camilla graced the Isle of Man with her presence on Wednesday, radiating smiles as she undertook various engagements, including the historic conferral of city status upon Douglas,
the capital of the crown dependency.
Upon her arrival at Ronaldsway Airport, the Queen received a warm welcome before proceeding to Douglas City Hall, where she officiated the ceremony granting city status to the borough. Representing her husband, King Charles, Queen Camilla delivered a speech expressing his regret for being unable to attend the momentous occasion, stating, "I hope that Manannan packed his cloak away to enable my dear wife to land at Ronaldsway from the adjacent isle this afternoon!"
In King Charles's speech, he conveyed his sentiments regarding the significance of this honor, emphasizing the unique cultural heritage of Douglas as the capital of the Isle.
Douglas was originally granted city status during Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022. Serving as the capital since 1896, Douglas boasts the distinction of housing the oldest continuous parliament globally, according to Buckingham Palace.
During the ceremony, Queen Camilla revealed a poignant detail about the letters patent, highlighting their significance as the only ones bearing both her signature and that of her late mother-in-law.
Following the formalities, the Queen unveiled a commemorative plaque at City Hall and engaged in a walkabout, warmly interacting with members of the public. Subsequently, she proceeded to Government House, where she met with Chief Minister Alfred Cannan and representatives from local community groups.
Inside Government House, discussions ensued with the Lieutenant Governor and delegates from cancer and environmental charities, concluding a day filled with meaningful engagements.
As the day drew to a close, Buckingham Palace announced Queen Camilla's departure from the Isle of Man, marking the continuation of her royal duties in Northern Ireland on Thursday. Photo by KoronaLacassePhoto, Wikimedia commons.