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Writer's pictureLuca Dallolio

The importance of coronations of British monarchs

The coronation of a British monarch is a significant event in the country's history and has been an important ceremony for centuries. The coronation is a formal ceremony that marks the monarch's official ascension to the throne, and it is steeped in tradition and symbolism.


The coronation of a British monarch dates back to the Middle Ages, and it was originally a religious ceremony that involved the anointing of the monarch with holy oil. The ceremony was seen as a way to legitimize the monarch's rule and to ensure that their authority was divinely sanctioned. Over time, the ceremony evolved to include more secular elements, such as the presentation of symbols of royal power and the swearing of oaths of allegiance by the monarch and other dignitaries.


The coronation ceremony is steeped in tradition and symbolism, with each element of the ceremony having a specific meaning. For example, the monarch is presented with various symbols of power, such as the orb and scepter, which represent their authority over the kingdom. The crown, which is the most important symbol of royal power, represents the monarch's right to rule and is passed down from monarch to monarch.

The ceremony also includes the anointing of the monarch, which is a symbolic act that represents the monarch's divine right to rule. The anointing is performed with holy oil, which is said to have been brought from heaven by a dove, and it is administered by the Archbishop of Canterbury.


The coronation of a British monarch is not only an important event in the country's history, but it is also a cultural event that captures the public's imagination. The ceremony is watched by millions of people around the world, and it is seen as a symbol of Britain's cultural heritage and its place in the world. The coronation also has a practical purpose, as it marks the beginning of the monarch's reign and sets the tone for their rule. The oath of allegiance that the monarch takes during the ceremony is a solemn promise to uphold the laws and traditions of the country and to serve the people to the best of their ability.


The coronation of a British monarch is an important event that has both historical and cultural significance. It is a ceremony that symbolizes the monarch's authority and legitimacy, and it is steeped in tradition and symbolism. While the exact nature of future coronations may evolve over time, the ceremony will undoubtedly continue to be an important part of British culture and history for generations to come.

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