Queen Camilla was pictured close to tears as she viewed a new display of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two.
The installation featured nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies from the 2014 commemorative art installation, Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red.
The 77-year-old Queen, visibly emotional, toured the display, which had been arranged within the inner walls of the historic fortress.
During her visit, the Queen met with representatives from the Tower of London and the team behind the installation.
Queen Camilla fights back tears at Tower of London in emotional tribute
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She also spent time speaking with schoolchildren and veterans who attended the commemorative event. The poppies were arranged in a distinctive design resembling a "wound" within the Tower.
This powerful visual representation reflected the long-lasting sacrifices made during World War Two. The ceramic flowers were originally part of the 2014 art installation "Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red".
Now repurposed for this significant anniversary, they created a striking memorial within the historic setting. Queen Camilla took time to view the installation carefully, speaking with those who helped create it.
Her interactions with veterans were particularly poignant, acknowledging their service and sacrifice. The schoolchildren in attendance also had the opportunity to learn about this important historical commemoration.
Queen Camilla became visibly emotional during the tribute
Reuters
During the ceremony, Poet Laureate Simon Armitage performed a new poem specially written to mark the anniversary. The piece was created to commemorate a significant historical milestone.
Queen Camilla also wore beautiful black gloves featuring a poppy, which Her Majesty told GB News she purchased in France. She paired these with a scarlet Fiona Clare dress.
Before departing, Queen Camilla participated in a symbolic act to complete the installation. She was joined by a local schoolchild to plant the final poppy in the display.
This gesture marked the completion of the memorial that honours those who served and sacrificed during the war.
Queen Camilla joined by a young child for the poignant event
Reuters
The planting of the final ceramic poppy provided a fitting conclusion to the Queen's visit to the Tower of London.
The completed installation now stands as a powerful tribute to the wartime generation on this important anniversary.
Earlier in the day, the King and Queen unveiled their new Coronation state portraits at the National Gallery. The King's portrait was created by Peter Kuhfeld, while the Queen's was painted by Paul S Benney.
Both monarchs were depicted in their Robes of State, alongside their crowns.
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The installation featured nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies
Reuters
Queen Camilla expressed her delight with her portrait, saying: "I just love it". The King praised the "wonderful composition" of his own portrait.
The royal visit marked the official re-opening of the Sainsbury Wing after a two-year transformation.
The King and Queen met supporters and donors, including members of the Sainsbury family and broadcaster Andrew Marr.
The King unveiled a plaque to mark the completion of the building project.
