The tour will include a visit to Villa Guardamangia, the former residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II
The Department of Information has posted some images of the arrival of Their Royal Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, at Castille Square, while being welcomed by the Prime Minister of Malta, Robert Abela, and his wife, Lydia Abela.
While in Valletta yesterday, the Duke and Duchess also visited the President Myriam Spiteri Debono, together with her husband, Dr Anthony Spiteri Debono at the Presidential Palace. They were shown around the grand palace constructed by the Knights of St John, including the armoury and the magnificent staterooms.
The royal couple will be on the island between till the 10th of October, to mark the 60th anniversary of Malta’s independence from the United Kingdom, which took place on 21 September 1964. The visit celebrates the longstanding ties and ongoing collaboration between the two nations.
Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, is the youngest brother of King Charles III, and inherited the title from their father, the late Prince Philip, who was Queen Elizabeth II's husband. His wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, was born Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones and married Prince Edward in 1999.
During their stay, the Duke and Duchess will visit Villa Guardamangia in Pietà, the former residence of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during his time stationed in Malta as a Royal Navy officer from 1949 to 1951. They will also explore significant World War II sites, including the Grand Harbour, and meet with war veterans.
Additionally, the Duchess of Edinburgh will take part in a panel discussion with the Malta Police Force, focusing on improving strategies for supporting victims of gender-based violence and human trafficking.
A highlight of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh's visit will be the inauguration of the new headquarters of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award in Malta. Founded by the late Prince Philip, the award has positively impacted countless generations of young people, encouraging personal development, leadership, and community involvement.
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