Celebrations were underway in London on Saturday morning as King Charles III prepared to be crowned in a coronation ceremony that was set to be watched at Westminster by thousands.
The coronation, the first in Britain in 70 years, will see Charles take the throne after his mother Queen Elizabeth II passed away in September.
Alongside Charles, his wife Camilla will be crowned as Queen, breaking from tradition as wives of kings in the UK are usually queen consorts.
Charles and Camilla departed in a procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey at 12:20 p.m. Israeli time. They set off in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach which was drawn by six horses.
As the two made their way to the abbey, a selection of music from throughout the Commonwealth played at the venue where the attendees had gathered.
Britain’s Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales attend Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla’s coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey, in London, Britain May 6, 2023. (credit: REUTERS/PHIL NOBLE/POOL)The royal couple arrived at Westminster Abbey at 1 p.m. Israeli time at which point the coronation, made of six parts, began.
What are the parts of the coronation?
Recognition – Charles was introduced to the crowd as their king, and the spectators said “God save the king”.
Oath – Charles made an oath to uphold the laws of the Anglican Church. For the first time in history, the oath included a promise to create an environment where all religions will be safe.
Charles is also the first king to have leaders of other religions in the UK take part in the coronation ceremony.
Anointing – Charles donned the anointing robe and sat on the throne of King Edward that dates back to 1300. He was then anointed with oil made and consecrated in Jerusalem which was applied on his chest, head and hands.
Investiture and Crowning – Charles will hold two royal sceptres as the crown is placed on his head.
Homage – The royal family will come forward and make displays of respect to Charles.
After the coronation ends, Charles and Camilla will head back to Buckingham Palace in another procession. They will then appear on the palace balcony accompanied by the rest of the family including next in line to the throne Prince and Princess of Wales William and Kate and their children.
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