Today, a special ceremony in Scotland is commemorating the coronation of the King and Queen. Charles, aged 74, and Camilla, aged 75, have been joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales for a national service of thanksgiving at St Giles’ Cathedral as part of Royal Week.
During this ceremony, the King will receive the Honours of Scotland, which are recognized as the oldest Crown Jewels globally. Furthermore, new music has been specifically composed for this significant event.
The service commenced with a procession led by Corporal Cruachan IV, the Shetland pony regimental mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. This procession included a group of 100 individuals, selected to represent diverse facets of life in Scotland. Notable participants ranged from NHS Scotland, commemorating its 75th anniversary, to the Robert Burns World Federation, the College of Master Kilt Tailors, the Scottish Parliament, the Prince’s Trust, Glasgow Life (museums), and the Trades Houses of Scotland, which encompass various professions such as coopers and goldsmiths.
Under military protection, the Honours of Scotland, which consist of The Crown, the Sceptre, and the Sword of State, were transported by car. The inclusion of the new Elizabeth Sword was necessary to replace the previous Sword of State, which had become too delicate. This previous sword was a gift from Pope Julius to James IV in 1507.
Photographs captured the royal family as they made their way from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the cathedral. The King, Queen, and Prince of Wales all adorned the robes of the Order of the Thistle, as they are members of Scotland’s highest order of chivalry.
Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, paid homage to Scotland’s flag by wearing a blue Catherine Walker coat dress paired with a matching Philip Treacy hat. Additionally, she adorned herself with a four-strand pearl choker that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Following the service, Edinburgh Castle will witness a gun salute, while the Red Arrows will perform a flypast.
The King and Queen commenced Royal Week on Monday. As part of the festivities, Charles took part in the Ceremony of the Keys at the palace and attended a reception aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, where he joined former sailors to commemorate the vessel’s 25th anniversary since arriving in Edinburgh.
On Tuesday, the royal couple visited the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh to honor the NHS’ 75th birthday. They also attended a garden party, accompanied by the Princess Royal.
In the meantime, Princess Kate arrived in Scotland a day after attending Wimbledon, where she watched Katie Boulter on Court 18 and Sir Andy Murray on Centre Court. This marked her first appearance at the renowned tennis tournament.
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