It has been described as the most important British dress design of the 20th century and the gown that Queen Elizabeth II wore at her Coronation, on June 2nd 1953, has its own place in history. The work of Sir Norman Hartnell, created in partnership by the Monarch, it has become one of the most emblematic outfits of the House of Windsor.
This was arguably the most important commission of Sir…
The idea of the Crown Jewels being stolen might seem like a movie.
Well, it’s not. They really were stolen thanks to one Irishman, Thomas Blood.
Born in County Meath in 1618, Blood came from a good family. His father was a prosperous blacksmith, and his…
Seventy years ago this spring, a young princess left her palace to marry a handsome heir to a throne. Their families had helped ensure the couple said ‘I do’ while royalty from around the continent gathered to see them exchange vows. It was a pattern followed by…
For the first time ever, female bishops will take part in a Coronation service.
Three of the UK’s highest ranking clerics will play integral parts in the ceremony on May 6th which will see King Charles III and Queen Camilla crowned.
The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullaly, Bishop of London will have a leading role. So, too, will the Rt Revd Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover and…
The Crown Jewels will be going on tour after the Coronation – in a rather unusual form.
An immersive light and music show will project the famous gems on to the sides of landmarks around the UK.
The spectacle starts at the Tower of London this autumn and will…
The Crown Jewels are the most sacred and special jewellery and regalia at the disposal of the monarch, and they are stored permanently at the Tower of London unless otherwise needed for state occasions, such as a coronation.
In total, there are 142 objects with over…
It’s been the subject of speculation for months now but King Charles might just have given us a clue as to what he will wear for his Coronation.
His Majesty has a number of options, including traditional breeches and shirt or military uniform. And as he posed for a Coronation portrait alongside Queen Camilla, there was a possible hint as to what The King might choose for the moment he is…
The servant of the people - the symbolism in the Anointing Screen at King Charles III's Coronation
28th April 2023
King Charles III has chosen to emphasise his role as servant of the people in one of the most important symbols of his Coronation.
The Anointing Screen which will be held around His Majesty at the moment holy oil is placed on his head, chest and hand features his cypher…
It is a chair with understated elegance and steeped in history.
The Coronation Chair, also known as King Edward’s Chair or Saint Edward’s Chair, was commissioned by King Edward I in 1296. Originally, it was meant to hold the Stone of Scone, taken from Scotland by King…
The ceremonial Sword of Offering will be carried into the Coronation by a female officer for the first time ever.
Petty Officer Amy Taylor will bear the jewelled sword into Westminster Abbey in The King and Queen’s Procession which will form part of the opening rites of the Coronation.
As the ceremonial roles were announced, Petty Officer Taylor said she was ”deeply honoured and…
