King Charles III’s reign officially began on September 8, 2022, immediately following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Now, a date has been set for the coronation, a symbolic event marking the start of the King Charles era: Saturday, May 6th, 2023.
This date is a departure from tradition, as Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation was held on a weekday, a Tuesday, back in 1953. That event was the first televised coronation in history, and a four-year-old Charles was among the thousands of guests watching his mother be crowned Queen.
Buckingham Palace has stated that King Charles’s coronation will reflect the Monarch’s role today while looking towards the future. While the ceremony will undoubtedly honor tradition, we can expect to see modern elements incorporated throughout.
Honoring Queen Elizabeth II’s Legacy
The presence of Queen Elizabeth II will undoubtedly be felt throughout the coronation. In his first public address as King, Charles paid tribute to his beloved mother: “Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved Mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family.”
A Coronation Steeped in History and Ritual
The Archbishop of Canterbury will preside over the anointing, blessing, and consecration of King Charles III. This sacred ritual dates back centuries and is a cornerstone of the coronation ceremony.
A More Intimate and Modern Affair
While adhering to tradition, King Charles’s coronation is expected to be smaller and simpler than his mother’s. Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation lasted nearly three hours and hosted 8,000 guests inside Westminster Abbey.
However, the Abbey’s capacity is only about 2,000, suggesting a more intimate gathering. Additionally, guests may adhere to a slightly more relaxed dress code compared to the strict protocols of 70 years ago.
The Crowning of Queen Consort Camilla
Queen Consort Camilla will also be crowned as part of the ceremony. She is reported to wear a crown created for the Queen Mother for the 1937 coronation of King George VI. This stunning headpiece features the famous 105-carat Koh-i-Noor diamond, a jewel steeped in history and controversy.
The Role of the Royal Family
As details of the coronation continue to emerge, the public eagerly awaits news regarding the roles King Charles’s children and siblings will play. Prince William, as heir apparent, will likely have a prominent role, while the roles of Prince Harry and other family members remain to be seen.
