Princess Charlene and Prince
Albert have been pictured at the Vatican, where they had a private
audience with Pope Francis on Tuesday.
Dressed all in black,
44-year-old Charlene appeared to be in great spirits, a clear indication that
she is slowly adjusting back to royal duties following her health setback.
She wore a chic black dress
custom-made by Terrence Bray, which featured a fit-and-flare structure and a
boat neckline. The royal finished off her look with a black lace veil and what
appeared to be rosary beads.
Princess Charlene recently
returned home to Monaco after battling an ear, nose and throat infection which
saw her spend much of 2021 in her home country of South Africa.
Back in May, the mum-of-two
opened up about the ill health that has plagued her. “My state of health
is still fragile, and I don’t want to go too fast,” the royal told Monaco
Matin. “The road has been long, difficult and so painful. Today I feel
calmer.”
Commenting on her return to
the public eye, which included appearances at Monaco Fashion Week and the Grand
Prix, the royal said: “When I returned to the Principality, I focused
all my energy on my children, my husband and my health because they are my
priority.”
Prince Albert has previously
confirmed that Princess Charlene was dealing with “exhaustion, both
emotional and physical”, after collapsing on 1 September due to complications
following one of several surgeries for a severe and ongoing ear, nose and
throat (ENT) infection.
 |
The royals after a private audience with Pope Francis
She was rushed to Netcare
Alberlito Hospital, and the Palace released the following statement to People:
“On the night of September 1, Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of
Monaco was taken to hospital after becoming ill due to complications from a
serious ENT infection. Her Highness is being closely followed by her medical
team, who say her condition is reassuring.”
