The State Opening of Parliament is always a grand affair, but this year it was doubly special as it coincided with Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday. The regal event, marking the formal start of the parliamentary year, saw King Charles and Queen Camilla adorned in historic crowns and royal regalia, emphasizing the deep-rooted traditions of the British monarchy.

A Royal Procession and Historic Regalia
On July 17, the royal couple made their way from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament in a majestic procession. The streets of London were lined with armed forces, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. King Charles and Queen Camilla traveled in the horse-drawn Diamond Jubilee State Coach, a symbol of continuity and tradition. Accompanying them in a separate carriage, Queen Alexandra’s State Coach, were the Imperial State Crown, the Great Sword of State, and the Cap of Maintenance, each steeped in historical significance.

Upon their arrival at around 11:15 AM, King Charles, dressed in his uniform of Admiral of the Fleet Royal Naval Number 1 Dress with cap and sword, entered the Palace of Westminster through the Sovereign’s Entrance. He was greeted by the Lord Great Chamberlain and proceeded to the Robing Room, where he donned the Parliament Robe of State and the Imperial State Crown. Queen Camilla, meanwhile, wore the George IV State Diadem, a sparkling headpiece with 1,333 diamonds, first created for the coronation of King George IV in 1820.

The King’s Speech and Ceremonial Traditions
The State Opening of Parliament is rich with ceremonial traditions. Before the event begins, royal bodyguards perform a symbolic search for explosives in the cellars of the Palace of Westminster. This tradition harks back to the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, where English Catholics attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate King James I. Another longstanding tradition involves holding a Member of Parliament “hostage” at Buckingham Palace to ensure the monarch’s safe return.

King Charles delivered the King’s Speech, written by the government to outline its policies and proposed legislation for the upcoming parliamentary session. His speech, which lasted around 20 minutes, concluded by 11:50 AM. Following the address, the King and Queen returned to the Robing Room before departing the Palace of Westminster.

Historic Crowns and Coronation Gowns
This event marked King Charles’ second time wearing the Imperial State Crown, six months after his coronation in May 2023. Although crowned with the St. Edward’s Crown during the official ceremony, he switched to the Imperial State Crown for subsequent appearances, including the State Opening of Parliament. Queen Camilla, continuing her role as a steadfast partner in royal duties, wore the Diamond Diadem, a piece traditionally worn by British queens. She also recycled her coronation gown for the occasion, blending continuity with contemporary royal fashion.

King Charles has a long history with the State Opening of Parliament, having first attended in 1970. He has supported his mother, Queen Elizabeth, at numerous ceremonies over the years. Notably, he stepped in for Queen Elizabeth in May 2022 when she was unable to attend due to mobility issues. This year’s event was particularly poignant, as it was his first State Opening of Parliament since ascending to the throne.

Busy Week for the Royal Couple
The State Opening of Parliament was part of a busy week for King Charles and Queen Camilla. Prior to the event, the couple visited the Channel Islands on July 15 and 16, fulfilling their royal duties with dedication and grace. Their commitment to their roles and to each other was evident throughout these engagements, showcasing their deep bond and shared sense of responsibility.

Commemorative Bell Ringing and Gun Salutes
Adding to the birthday celebrations, Westminster Abbey rang its bells to honor Queen Camilla. This tradition, reserved for a select few royal birthdays, highlighted the significance of the day. The Abbey, famous for royal weddings and funerals, only rings its bells for the birthdays of King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Kate, reflecting their pivotal roles within the monarchy.

In another grand gesture, two consecutive gun salutes were fired at the Tower of London by the Honourable Artillery Company. These salutes, organized by Royal Parks, are reserved for major royal events, including the King’s coronation anniversary, Trooping the Colour, and significant birthdays. The salutes echoed throughout the city, underscoring the importance of the occasion and the respect afforded to Queen Camilla.

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Source: https://people.com/king-charles-queen-camilla-wear-crowns-state-opening-of-parliament-8678731