King Charles has become the first Head of State has been formally welcomed at the Brandenburg Gate as his State Visit to Germany gets underway.
Accompanied by Queen Camilla, The King received a full Ceremonial Welcome at the Brandenburg Gate – one of the country’s best-known landmarks.
Usually, visiting Heads of State are welcome in ceremonies at Schloss Bellevue – the official residence of the President.
The decision to use of the Brandenburg Gate as the scene of the Ceremonial Welcome is a highly symbolic one, showcasing Britain’s relationship with Germany.
President Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Büdenbender, greeted The King and Queen as they arrived on Pariser Platz.
The foursome posed for photographs before walking with the President and his wife towards the podium in front of the military Guard of Honour and Brandenburg Gate.
Both National Anthems were played, and the flags were raised as The King and Queen watched on.
Shortly after, Their Majesties met members of the public, including pupils from local schools, members of the Royal British Legion, and British
Embassy staff and families.
The Queen Consort also meet a children’s choir, members of activity groups for the elderly, and some of those who were involved in their last visit to
Berlin.
The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most important monuments, symbolising peace and unity.
Commissioned by King Frederick William II in the late 1700s, the gates became a memorial of division following the construction of the Berlin Wall, as it was located in an area that could not ve visited by either East or West Germans.
After the fall of the Wall, the Brandenburg Gate became a symbol of German unity.
Once the formalities were completed at the gate, The King and Queen travelled on to Schloss Bellevue for the second part of the welcoming ceremony.
Here, Their Majesties were greeted by President Steinmeier and Ms Büdenbender at the steps of Bellevue Palace where they once again paused for official photographs.
Their Majesties signed the Golden Book before greeting German and UK delegations.
His Majesty then attended the Sustainability Reception in partnership with the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue.