British Royals

Milestones of a Monarch: The Queen's first state visit to the Vatican

The Queen has made history countless times throughout her 70-year reign and 17 October 1980 was no exception. On that day, Queen Elizabeth II became the first British Monarch to make a state visit to the Vatican. The historic visit was seen as a historic opportunity to forge relations between the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church. Her Majesty was accompanied by her husband, the…
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British RoyalsQueen Elizabeth II

Milestones of a Monarch: Barbados becomes a republic

The Queen has seen countries gain their independence from The Crown throughout her reign, with the most recent being Barbados’s transition to a republican country last November. Barbados was claimed as a British colony during the reigns of James I and Charles I in the 1600s and became independent on 30 November 1966 (with the Duke of Kent attending the celebrations), though it chose to remain…
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Features

Milestones of a Monarch: The Silver Jubilee

In 1977, the United Kingdom and Commonwealth celebrated as it was the Silver Jubilee of Elizabeth II, marking the 25th anniversary of The Queen’s accession to the throne. Celebrations were marked in June during “Jubilee Days” which coincided with The…
British RoyalsQueen Elizabeth II

The Queen's Reign in Style: sister of the bride

When her fashionista sister married at Westminster Abbey on 6 May 1960, all eyes were on the stunning wedding dress of Princess Margaret, but The Queen’s beautiful blue evening gown also drew accolades that day. Designed by court designer Norman Hartnell, The Queen sported a belted turquoise faille and lace evening gown with a full skirt and matching bolero to the wedding of Princess Margaret…
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The Queen's reign in Jewels: The Coronation Necklace

Seventy years ago, on February 6 1952, a young Queen Elizabeth II acceded to the British throne. She was crowned on 2 June 1953 at Westminster Abbey in London. And amongst the timeless jewels worn that day, was a necklace that has its own place in history. The Queen wore the Coronation Necklace, a diamond necklace with large collet set diamonds. The necklace was originally created for Victoria…
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