In a remarkable display of tradition and celebration, King Charles and Queen Camilla donned historic crowns for the State Opening of Parliament, which coincidentally fell on the Queen’s 77th birthday.
Rather than relaxing on her special day, the royal couple chose to engage in this significant ceremonial event, marking the official commencement of the parliamentary year.
The occasion took place on July 17, just weeks after the Labour Party’s victory in the July 4 general election, which ushered in Keir Starmer as the new Prime Minister of the UK.
The streets of London were lined with armed forces, creating a grand atmosphere as the royal procession made its way from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament.
King Charles, aged 75, and Queen Camilla traveled in the opulent Diamond Jubilee State Coach, while the Royal Regalia, including the Imperial State Crown, the Great Sword of State, and the Cap of Maintenance, followed in their own carriage, Queen Alexandra’s State Coach.
Arriving around 11:15 AM, King Charles, dressed in his Admiral of the Fleet uniform complete with cap and sword, entered the Palace of Westminster through the Sovereign’s Entrance.
Upon arrival, he was greeted by the Lord Great Chamberlain before proceeding to the Robing Room.
There, he donned the Parliament Robe of State along with the Imperial State Crown.
The ceremony unfolded with King Charles delivering the King’s Speech, a key moment that outlines government policies and proposed legislation for the new parliamentary session.
Taking approximately 20 minutes, the speech concluded at 11:50 AM UK time.
Afterward, the King and Queen returned to the Robing Room, continuing the day’s ceremonial duties.
This event is steeped in rich tradition, beginning with the Royal Bodyguards conducting a ceremonial search for explosives within the cellars of the Palace of Westminster, a nod to the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
Another intriguing aspect of the ceremony involves a Member of Parliament being held hostage in Buckingham Palace during the event, a precautionary measure ensuring the monarch’s safe return.
King Charles led his first State Opening of Parliament ceremony in November 2023, marking a significant milestone in his reign.
This occasion marked the second time the King wore the Imperial State Crown since his coronation in May 2023.
Although he was officially crowned with the St. Edward’s Crown, reserved for crowning a new monarch, he switched to the Imperial State Crown later in the service, making a striking appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony and in official portraits.
Queen Camilla also made a notable fashion statement, wearing the historic diamond diadem for the first time during the event.
This exquisite piece, adorned with 1,333 diamonds, was originally created for the coronation of King George IV in 1820 and has since graced the heads of every British queen, whether reigning or consort.
Additionally, Queen Camilla recycled her coronation gown for this significant occasion, showcasing her commitment to sustainability in royal fashion.
King Charles has a long history with the State Opening of Parliament, having attended the event multiple times in support of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
In a memorable moment, he stepped in for the Queen during the ceremony in May 2022 when she was unable to attend due to mobility issues.
This time, the King fully embraced his role, delivering the King’s Speech and continuing the legacy of royal tradition with grace and dignity.
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