King Charles showcased his linguistic prowess during his inaugural visit to the Isle of Man as monarch, even joking about "massacring" the Manx language.
He addressed the island’s parliament, Tynwald, in the ancient Manx tongue, which is currently experiencing a revival.
Acknowledging "Manx Language Year – Blein ny Gaelgey," he lightened the mood by quipping: "So I very much hope I have not succeeded at this point in massacring this wonderful celebration of your language…!"
Beyond his Manx efforts, the King also conversed in French with a native speaker among the crowds outside the parliament building.
During his day on the island, where he holds the title Lord of Mann, he enjoyed a ride on a horse-drawn tram along Douglas promenade and attended a garden party.
His visit to Tynwald, recognised as one of the world’s oldest continuous legislatures, marked a formal welcome to the self-governing crown dependency.
The popular holiday destination famed for its Isle of Man TT, a motorbike event through the streets of Douglas and the countryside outside, has alongside its parliament a government, civil service, judiciary and raises its own revenue via taxes.
Charles added: “As the world’s oldest parliament in continuous operation, Tynwald holds a remarkable distinction.
“This longevity speaks not only to the strength of your institutions, but also of the enduring partnership between the Crown and the people of this Island.”
He went on to say: “The first Royal visit was by my great great great grandfather, Prince Albert, who was rowed ashore from the steam-driven Royal Yacht, Victoria And Albert in September 1847, disembarked at Ramsey, and became the first Royal visitor to the Island.”
After the formal welcome, Charles met members of the public outside the parliament building in the capital and shook hands and exchanged a few words with well-wishers.
He spoke to Fabienne Favray, originally from France but who has lived on the island for 12 years, switching from English to French, when she spoke a few words of her first tongue.
