History

The 'fake pregnancy' scandal that rocked the monarchy

There are a number of events in English royal history that seem extraordinary and unbelievable, but the warming pan scandal has to be at the top of the list. The son of James II and Mary of Modena had a very interesting start to life and would be questioned for decades.  James II was not an overly popular monarch; he was Roman Catholic (and was married to a Roman Catholic), attempted to repeal…
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Features

The most famous royal diamonds of all

There were several important pieces and jewels on display at King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Coronation on 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey. Three stones, in particular, were centre of attention in the Abbey when The Queen wore Queen Mary’s crown. And the gems are…
Spain

King Felipe and Queen Letizia present hugely popular writer with major prize

King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain have hosted author Luis Mateo Diez to present a literary prize. On April 23rd, The King and Queen presented Diez with the 2023 Cervantes Prize. The Miguel de Cervantes Prize is the most significant literary prize in the Spanish language; it is given to an author to celebrate an author’s lifetime achievement in Spanish language…
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Sweden

Queen Silvia sparkles in famous tiara

Queen Silvia of Sweden pulled out a historic tiara for a State Dinner in Stockholm. King Carl Gustaf and Queen Silvia are hosting the Finnish President for a State Visit, and Queen Silvia chose a notable piece. She wore the Nine-Prong Tiara, also commonly referred to as Queen Sofia’s Tiara. This tiara features 580 diamonds and has nine prongs to top off burst and floral elements. Other gems…
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History

The only joint coronation in British history

11 April will be the 335th anniversary of a very unique British coronation- the only joint coronation in British history. Queen Mary II and King William III were crowned as co-monarchs at Westminster Abbey after being offered the crown. King James II became King upon his brother’s death in 1685. The once beloved Duke of York was Catholic, though, and this would be his downfall. After…
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