To celebrate the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, we’ve decided to look back almost 70 years to the late Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, which took place on June 2, 1953.
The ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey in London, with more than 8000 guests in attendance, and it was the first time a British coronation was televised. In fact, millions of people around the world tuned in to watch the spectacle.
WATCH: In memory of Queen Elizabeth II
The Queen’s coronation procession was a grand affair, featuring more than 200 horses and 1000 members of the armed forces. The procession route was decorated with flags, banners, and flowers.
Crowds lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the young Queen Elizabeth, who was transported from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey in the famous Gold State Coach, which dates back to the 18th century.
The coronation ceremony itself was steeped in tradition and symbolism. It began with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Geoffrey Fisher, presenting the Queen with the symbols of her authority – the orb, the sceptre, and the royal ring of sapphire and rubies.
The Queen then took an oath to uphold the laws of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, and to govern justly and wisely.
The moment that captured the attention of the world was the crowning of Queen Elizabeth. The archbishop placed the St. Edward’s Crown, which weighs nearly five pounds and is set with more than 400 precious stones, on the Queen’s head during the ceremony.
Today, Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation is remembered as a defining moment in British history. It was a celebration of tradition, ceremony, and continuity, and it marked the beginning of a new era for the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
WATCH: 10 Defining Moments Of Queen Elizabeth II’s life
How old was Queen Elizabeth II at her coronation?
Queen Elizabeth was 27 years old when her coronation took place.
Why was the Queen’s coronation delayed?
Queen Elizabeth’s coronation took place over a year after she ascended the throne. It was delayed out of respect for her father, King George VI, as he died rather unexpectedly. Plus, it’s also tradition to wait an appropriate length of ‘mourning time’ after a monarch’s death.
What day of the week was the Queen’s coronation?
Queen Elizabeth was crowned on Tuesday, June 2, 1953.
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