The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, started their most recent Canadian visit in St. John's on Monday. The Duke, better known as Prince Charles, has toured Canada 15 times prior to this visit. For his wife Camilla, this marks her first official visit to the country as a member of the royal family.

Their eleven day tour will take them across the nation but they received a typical down home welcome at the Mile One Stadium from political dignitaries and local entertainers including the Nunatsiavut Drum Dancers, the Shallaway youth choir and music from the Royal Newfoundland Regiment band.

During the official ceremony, the prince took time to praise the generosity of the islanders during the September 11 terrorist attacks. Planes from all over North America were diverted to the island and residents opened their homes, and hearts. He also commended Canadian troops who were "Serving with the best possible distinction" in Afghanistan.

"In all cases, Canadians are bringing the light of freedom and justice to the darker corners of the world," Charles said.

While in Newfoundland, the royal couple have visited the historic out-port town of Cupids, which will be celebrating its400th anniversary in 2010 and Brigus, home of Arctic Explorer Captain Robert Bartlett.

The Duke of Cornwall who has made many official visits to Canada looks forward to showing his new wife the beauty of our country. Camilla has Canadian roots she is the the great-great-great-granddaughter of Allan MacNab, a prime minister of the province of Canada before Confederation. To view photographs from the royal visit to Newfoundland and Labrador, please click here.

Visit Tourism Newfoundland to learn more about the many historic town you can visit in the province.