Princess Charlene of Monaco, Spain’s Queen Letizia, and Belgium’s Queen Mathilde captivated onlookers at the Vatican on Sunday.
They attended the historic inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV.
PRINCESS CHARLENE AT THE VATICAN
The trio stepped out in stunning all-white ensembles, a rare and prestigious honour known as the “privilege of the white” (le privilège du blanc).
This is reserved exclusively for a select group of Catholic queens and princesses, according to the Daily Mail.
The Mass, held in St Peter’s Square, marked the official beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate. Tens of thousands gathered to witness the ceremony, which blended ancient ritual with modern pomp.
THE NEW POPE
The new Pope is the first American to hold the position. He made a grand entrance in the popemobile, waving warmly to the crowd.
Princess Charlene, Queen Letizia, and Queen Mathilde’s choice of white was far from a mere fashion statement.
Normally, women attending papal audiences must wear black with a mantilla, symbolising respect and humility.
However, these royal women hold a unique privilege allowing them to don white for special Vatican events. These events could include inaugurations, canonisations, and beautification.
PRINCESS CHARLENE AND TRADITION
This tradition is granted only to Catholic queens and princesses, recognising their status and faith.
Queen Letizia, who attended the inaugural Mass of Pope Francis in 2013 as Princess of Asturias, was now able to wear white as Queen of Spain.
This is a right she first exercised in 2014 after her husband’s accession.
Alongside her, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Queen Mathilde of Belgium also proudly displayed this rare honour.
PRINCESS CHARLENE AND THE EXCLUSIVE GROUP
They joined a small group of just seven women worldwide with this privilege.
The group includes Queen Sofia and Queen Paola (former queens consort of Spain and Belgium), Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg, and Princess Marina of Naples.
The royal couple arrived in style: Prince Albert II of Monaco looked dashing in a navy suit beside Princess Charlene.
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain entered arm-in-arm, Letizia’s chic white dress complemented by nude kitten heels.
FAITH AND DIPLOMACY
Belgium’s King Philippe and Queen Mathilde arrived warmly greeting Spain’s royals before taking their places for the Mass.
Prince Edward represented Britain at the Mass, underscoring the global significance of the event.
Other notable attendees included America’s Vice President JD Vance and France’s Prime Minister François Bayrou. Their appearance highlighted the Vatican’s role as a crossroads of faith and diplomacy.
VATICAN PROTOCOL
Princess Charlene added, “To be part of such a momentous occasion is a profound honour, one that connects us to centuries of history and devotion.”
This rare glimpse into Vatican protocol and royal pageantry offers a fascinating insight into how ancient customs continue to shape modern diplomacy and identity.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE TRADITION OF THE ‘PRIVILEGE OF THE WHITE’ IN THE VATICAN?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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