Though technically you could call it the more casual of the two crowns, the Imperial State Crown, made in 1937, is more blingy, with 2,868 diamonds and numerous sapphires, emeralds, and pearls. It also features a purple velvet cap and ermine fur trim.
Queen Camilla will be adorned with the Queen Mary’s Crown, which was designed in 1911 and is similarly shiny, with 2,200 diamonds, including two that are being added from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s collection.
What is the procession route for the coronation?
King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla will travel from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey in what’s known as the King’s Procession via the famed Gold Stage Coach. Following the ceremony, the royal pair will be joined by more members of the royal family in the Coronation Procession back to Buckingham Palace. Finally, the royals will make an appearance on the balcony before the official ceremonies for day one conclude.
Who will attend the coronation?
The official coronation invite was shared by Buckingham Palace in early April. Featuring artwork by Andrew Jamieson, the invitation was packed with symbolism. There is an image of the Green Man, “an ancient figure from British folklore, symbolic of spring and rebirth, to celebrate the new reign,” according to a release from the Palace. He is surrounded by a border of plant life native to the UK, and atop the page are two coats of arms representing King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Among the guests will be members of the royal family, including Prince William, his wife Princess Kate, and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. There has been much discussion about whether Prince Harry and his family would attend the event, given he and his wife Meghan Markle’s public criticism of the royal family. Recently, Prince Harry and Buckingham Palace confirmed that he will attend, but Markle and their children, Archie and Lilibet, will remain at home in California.
Royals from other countries such as Monaco, Japan, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, Greece, and more are expected to attend, as well as politicians including British prime minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murthy and first lady Jill Biden. A selection of British Empire Medal recipients were also invited.
Who is performing at the coronation?
On May 7 the Coronation Concert will take place at Windsor Castle. Hosted by Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville, the event will feature performances by Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Take That, Andrea Bocelli along with Welsh singer Sir Bryn Terfel, Freya Ridings with Alexis Ffrench, and a coronation choir made up of singers from across the UK. Time Out also reports that Bette Midler may make an appearance.