Prince Charles has visited an Italian village devastated by an earthquake.
The 68-year-old royal was taken to the badly damaged area of the town of Amatrice, central Italy – which was hit by the earthquake in August – as part of a tour of Europe designed to strengthen relations with European Union allies in the wake of Britain’s decision to leave the EU.
Whilst visiting the abandoned ‘red zone’ of the village – where much of the devastation took place – the royal was seen walking in silence as he took in the sight of the buildings which had been reduced to rubble.
He said as he walked past a destroyed church: "It’s a scene of terrifying devastation."
Prince Charles also met with survivors of the natural disaster – which killed 297 people including three Britons – in emotional scenes which saw one woman break down in tears whilst another man clasped hands with the prince.
Charles told Amatrice’s mayor, Sergio Pirozzi: "The people in Britain mind very much what’s happened to you all here."
The royal and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, are currently on a six-day visit to Italy which has involved the pair visiting cities such as Florence, Naples, and Vicenza.
After first visiting Florence on Friday (31.03.17), the royal couple will return to the city on Monday (03.04.17) to attend a reception marking the 100th anniversary of the British Institute of Florence, where Charles will be honoured as the Renaissance Man of the Year.
On Tuesday (04.04.17), the pair will travel to the Vatican City, where they are set to meet with Pope Francis and tour the Vatican.
Prince Charles visits town damaged by earthquake
