The coronation of King Charles III in Britain, which was the biggest ceremonial event in seven decades. The coronation was a historic and solemn two-hour service that dated back to William the Conqueror in 1066. The ceremony involved the Archbishop of Canterbury placing the 360-year-old St Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head as he sat upon a 14th-century throne in Westminster Abbey. Camilla, Charles’ second wife, was also crowned queen during the ceremony. The post highlights the attempt to present a forward-looking monarchy, reflecting a more diverse country and its religions. Despite the cost of living crisis and public scepticism, the monarchy’s supporters say the royal family provides an international draw, a vital diplomatic tool and a means of keeping Britain on the world stage. The post also mentions the procession and parade that followed the ceremony, and the involvement of notable figures such as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Overview of coronation of King Charles III:
- King Charles III was crowned on Saturday in a lavish display of pageantry at Westminster Abbey.
- The Archbishop of Canterbury placed the St Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head, as he sat upon a 14th-century throne.
- The event was attended by about 100 world leaders and broadcast to a television audience of millions.
- Gun salutes were fired across the capital, the nation, in Gibraltar, Bermuda, and on ships at sea.
- The two-hour service dates back to the time of William the Conqueror in 1066.
- Charles’ second wife Camilla was also crowned queen during the ceremony.
- The event aimed to present a forward-looking monarchy and reflect a more diverse country and all its religions.
- The monarchy’s supporters say the royal family provides an international draw, a vital diplomatic tool, and a means of keeping Britain on the world stage.
- Despite public skepticism, the coronation featured historical regalia, a four-ton Gold State Coach, and 4,000 military personnel from 39 nations.
- Notably absent were Charles’ younger son, Prince Harry, and his brother, Prince Andrew, who was forced to quit royal duties due to his friendship with late U.S. financier Jeffrey Epstein.