King Charles III and Queen Camilla have extended a magnificent ceremonial welcome to the President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and First Lady Elke Büdenbender, marking the start of a historic three-day state visit to the United Kingdom.
A Grand Ceremonial Welcome in Windsor
The state visit, the first from Germany in 27 years, commenced in Windsor today. The German presidential couple were first greeted at Heathrow Airport by the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, before travelling to Windsor & Eton Riverside Railway Station for the official welcome from Their Majesties.
From there, a grand carriage procession transported the King, Queen, and their German guests through the streets of Windsor towards Windsor Castle. The route was lined with crowds and adorned with both Union Flags and German flags, while being guarded by ceremonial troops from across the British Armed Forces.
Precision Pageantry and Historical Echoes
With impeccable timing, the moment President Steinmeier stepped onto the Royal Pavilion, a 41-gun Royal Salute was fired simultaneously by The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery in Windsor's Home Park and by the Honourable Artillery Company at the Tower of London.
The procession concluded in the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle, where a Guard of Honour was mounted by the Grenadier Guards. This regiment, which fought alongside German forces against Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo, presented its exceptionally large State Colour for inspection.
The President inspected the troops accompanied by King Charles as the military band played Beethoven's 'Marsch des Yorck’schen Korps', a piece with German military heritage.
A State Banquet and Strengthened Ties
Later, the visit's first day will culminate in a State Banquet within the splendour of St George’s Hall at Windsor Castle. The Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra will provide a repertoire of German and popular music for the occasion.
After speeches, Pipers from the Scots Guards will perform, signalling the end of the day's formal events. The state visit, hosted by King Charles as the nation's sovereign, plays a vital role in reinforcing the deep and longstanding relationship between the UK and Germany, founded on centuries of shared history and common interests.
