King Charles’ Coronation III was crowned on Saturday in an elaborate ceremony that had not been seen in 70 years. The coronation was held at Westminster Abbey and attended by approximately 100 world leaders, with millions more watching on television. The Archbishop of Canterbury placed the 360-year-old St Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head as he sat on a 14th-century throne, while gun salutes were fired in London, Gibraltar, Bermuda, and on ships at sea. The two-hour ceremony, which dates back to William the Conqueror in 1066, was also broadcast live for only the second time, showcasing the monarchy’s commitment to presenting a diverse and forward-looking image that includes all religions.
Charles’s wife, Camilla, was also crowned queen during the ceremony. While some criticize the monarchy, supporters argue that it provides an essential tool for maintaining Britain’s standing on the global stage. The coronation was also an opportunity to celebrate British history and display historical regalia such as bejeweled swords and the world’s largest colorless cut diamond.
The Procession from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace
Following the service, Charles and Camilla traveled in a four-ton Gold State Coach to Buckingham Palace, flanked by a one-mile procession of 4,000 military personnel from 39 nations. Meanwhile, hundreds of soldiers in scarlet uniforms and black bearskin hats lined The Mall, the grand boulevard leading to the palace. Despite the pouring rain, tens of thousands of people gathered to watch the procession, many of whom saw the moment as historic.
Inside the abbey, politicians, charity workers, and celebrities, including actors Emma Thompson, Maggie Smith, Judi Dench, and U.S. singer Katy Perry, sat alongside representatives from Commonwealth nations. Charles looked solemn as he swore oaths to govern justly and uphold the Church of England.
Prince William, Charles’s eldest son, and heir also took part in the ceremony. He knelt before his father to pledge his loyalty as his “liege man of life and limb,” while outside, crowds cheered.
Despite its spectacle, not everyone was there to celebrate. Some hundreds of Republicans booed and waved banners reading “Not My King.” More than 11,000 police officers were deployed to prevent any potential disruption. However, the protesters were in the minority, most attending the event to celebrate its uniqueness or family connections.
Overall, the coronation was an important moment for the British monarchy, legitimizing Charles’s rule in the eyes of the public. It also served as a reminder of Britain’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as a means of projecting a more modern and diverse image to the world.
