Prince Edward Reveals Emotional Windsor Castle Link to Portugal as He Kicks Off Royal Tour
The trip is in honor of marking the 640th anniversary of the historic Treaty of Windsor while celebrating the enduring relationship between the UK and Portugal.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie, began their three-day visit to Portugal on Monday, June 1st. The official tour marks the 640th anniversary of the historic Treaty of Windsor, celebrating the enduring alliance between the United Kingdom and Portugal. Upon arriving in Lisbon, the royal couple took a scenic ride on one of the city's iconic yellow trams before attending a special engagement at the Portuguese National Archive, where the original English and Portuguese copies of the Treaty of Windsor were displayed side by side for the first time since the agreement was signed in 1386.
During the visit, as he addressed guests, organizers, and historians at the archive, Prince Edward shared a lesser-known link between Portugal and Windsor Castle. Speaking about the extensive restoration efforts following the devastating 1992 Windsor Castle fire, the Duke shared a heartfelt memory, as reported by the Express. “I am also delighted that, in more recent times, after the tragedy of the fire at Windsor Castle, Portugal wanted to be involved in the restoration,” he said, before adding, “We're always very grateful for that offer. When you go into the Crimson Drawing Room, all the tassel work was completely done by the Portuguese, so you are very much at the heart of Windsor Castle.” The royal's remarks highlighted a unique contribution that has continued to successfully connect the two nations decades later.
The Duke also added a layer of humor to the occasion while examining the centuries-old documents. While observing the condition of the English copy of the treaty, Edward jokingly said, “The Portuguese are better at looking after their documents!” before pointing out stains that have appeared on the English version over the past 640 years. He then stressed the fact that it “is always important to read the fine print,” drawing laughter from those around him. The comments came as both versions of the landmark treaty were brought together for a limited public display.
The treaty is one of the most significant symbols of Anglo-Portuguese relations. It was signed in 1386 by King Richard II of England and King João I of Portugal, after their victory against Castile at the Battle of Aljubarrota. It was meant to establish a bond of “perpetual friendship, union, and alliance.” The agreement was later solidified through the marriage of King João I and Philippa of Lancaster. For many centuries, it has remained active through major conflicts, including the Napoleonic Wars, World War I, and World War II.
As their tour continues, Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie will undertake joint engagements across Lisbon and Porto, focusing heavily on youth opportunities and women, peace, and security initiatives. The trip marks the first British royal visit to Portugal since 2011, when King Charles and Queen Camilla—then the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall—conducted an official tour. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh themselves last visited Portugal together in 2005. Hence, this return appears especially significant as the two nations are happily commemorating one of the world's oldest diplomatic alliances.
