In pictures: Afghan ex-king returns

After 29 years in exile, Afghanistan's 87-year-old former king, Zahir Shah, has returned to his war-ravaged homeland in a move many hope will help bring unity.

Escorted from Rome by interim leader Hamid Karzai, the ex-monarch was warmly welcomed by dignitaries, officials, warlords and supporters.

There was a red carpet and honour guard for the ex-monarch as he stepped off the plane in Kabul.

Security was tight around the airport as supporters pushed forward to see their former king.

Arriving as an ordinary citizen, the former leader wore a leather jacket alongside the brightly clad Karzai.

Afghans celebrated his return with folk music and dancing.

Supporters clapped as a motorcade whisked their old king away.

Parts of his old palace are still intact but the ex-king will be staying at new home in Kabul's suburbs.

The ex-king will be protected by barbed wire there.

His father's war-damaged mausoleum stands as a reminder of Afghanistan's potential for violence