King Charles has embarked on his first overseas trip since his coronation, choosing to holiday solo in Romania's Transylvania region. The monarch, who has been visiting the country almost annually since 1998, is known for his deep affection for the nation, which royal historian Dr Tessa Dunlop describes as a long-standing 'love affair'.
During his visit, Charles has been seen hiking with a shepherd's crook, picnicking with locals, and meeting with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis. He has also recited poetry in Romanian, a language he has made efforts to learn. The King's connection to Romania is partly through his ancestry: he is a 16-times removed grandson of Vlad the Impaler via his great-grandmother Queen Mary.
Romania has reciprocated Charles's affection, awarding him the Star of Romania, one of its highest honours. Locals have lined the streets to welcome him, with some declaring 'one of ours is on the British throne' at his coronation. Romania's leading royal reporter Camelia Csiki noted that Charles receives 'love and admiration that he does not in the UK'.
The King's interest in Romania dates back to 1989, when he challenged the country's communist dictator Ceausescu over the destruction of traditional rural architecture. Since then, he has built a considerable property portfolio in the country, drawn to its unique craftsmanship and pristine countryside. A Transylvanian meadow has even been planted at Highgrove, his Gloucestershire estate.
