Relive the majesty of Scotland’s ancient traditions this Wednesday as King Charles and his wife Camilla are feted in a grand procession and service of thanksgiving. The royal couple arrive in Edinburgh to be presented with the “Honours of Scotland”, Britain’s oldest crown jewels, an illustrious honor dating back to the 16th century.
Be part of the momentous occasion on the famous Royal Mile, where hundreds of service personnel will parade alongside a People’s Procession of one-hundred representatives from all walks of life showcasing the different aspects of Scotland. Let us pause and be thankful for this momentous event, and celebrate Scotland’s unique history and culture.
The Honours of Scotland consist of the Crown of Scotland, crafted for Scottish King James V in 1540 and used in Mary Queen of Scots’ coronation in 1543, and the Sceptre, which was thought to have been gifted to James IV by Pope Alexander VI in 1494. These artifacts bear grand witness to Scotland’s illustrious past, and serve as a reminder of its everlasting traditions and customs.
The Honours of Scotland, a collection of ceremonial items of immense historical significance, will feature the newly-crafted Elizabeth Sword in honor of the late Queen. This will be placed alongside the Stone of Destiny – a symbol of Scottish nationhood brought to England in the 13th century and returned to Scotland in 1996 – which will make its way to the cathedral for the service.
On this momentous occasion, a 21-gun salute from Edinburgh Castle will echo through the sky followed by a procession leading back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The skies will light up with an awe-inspiring performance from the Red Arrows aerobatic team. Joining them at the Cathedral will be Charles’ eldest son and heir Prince William and his wife Kate.
The regalia of Scotland now contains five newly commissioned pieces of music, uniting art and tradition as these meaningful items carry us into a new era.
As King Charles’ coronation parade makes its way down the Royal Mile, it is expected to be met with vocal opposition from those who oppose the monarchy. Recent polls reveal that support for the monarchy is lower in Scotland than in other parts of the United Kingdom.
The question of Scottish independence lingers in the air, with many who favour secession hoping for an elected head of state instead. Staunch anti-monarchist Graham Smith, the CEO of Republic, weighed in on the issue with a sharp statement: “Charles wants to be center of attention again – but at what cost? Scottish taxpayers will need to bear the cost of this expensive vanity parade.” Smith was arrested during Charles’ coronation ceremonies in London in May.
