In the United Kingdom, a coronation is a momentous event that symbolises the formal ascension of a new monarch to the throne. Held at Westminster Abbey in London, it is a grand ceremony filled with rich traditions and historical significance. The coronation typically involves the anointing of the monarch, the bestowal of regalia and symbols of power, and the taking of sacred oaths. It is witnessed by dignitaries, members of the royal family, and representatives from various sectors of society. The coronation in the UK is a special occasion that highlights the continuity of the monarchy and the nation’s unity under its new sovereign.
King Charles III was crowned on May 6, at London’s Westminster Abbey, continuing a long-standing tradition that stretches back over 1,000 years. His ascension to the throne came at the age of 73 following the passing of his mother. Born on November 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace, Charles began his journey towards becoming the monarch of the United Kingdom when he was just a young child.
Here are some intriguing facts about the United Kingdom’s new monarch, King Charles III. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the first monarch to have received formal schooling, unlike his predecessors who were primarily educated by private tutors, as reported by Reuters. Charles attended Hill House School in West London during his early years before transitioning to Cheam School in Berkshire, where his late father Prince Philip also studied. Later, Charles became the head boy at Cheam School, a position of responsibility and leadership.
Charles attended a number of notable institutions during his scholastic career. He attended Cheam School and Hill House School before continuing on his father’s educational path at Gordonstoun, a demanding residential school in Scotland. He broadened his horizons by attending Geelong Church of England Grammar School in Melbourne, Australia. He went to Trinity College in Cambridge to pursue his higher education, where he initially majored in physical and social anthropology and archaeology before switching to history. He also spent a term studying Welsh at the University College of Wales in Aberystwyth to fully immerse himself in the Welsh culture.
Charles had a love of athletics in addition to his studies. He enjoyed skiing, surfing, and scuba diving in his youth.
King Charles III, formerly known as the Prince of Wales, married Lady Diana Spencer, who became the Princess of Wales, in 1981. Together, they had two sons, William and Harry. However, their marriage faced challenges, and they eventually separated, with their divorce finalised in 1996. Tragically, Princess Diana passed away in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997. Charles went on to marry Camilla Parker Bowles on April 9, 2005, and upon his ascension to the throne, she became Queen Consort, as per Queen Elizabeth II’s wishes. During King Charles’ coronation on May 6, 2023, at Westminster Abbey in London, Camilla will officially be known as Queen Camilla.
It’s interesting to note that the King has a peculiar eating routine because he skips lunch. His favoured beverage is milk, honey, and Darjeeling tea. King Charles has long supported environmental causes in addition to his personal interests. As early as 1970, he expressed worries about pollution and plastics’ effects on the environment. His involvement in tree-planting ceremonies at his engagements demonstrates his dedication to the environment. He extends a hand to a limb after each tree has been planted as a sign of amity.
