Current:Home > FinanceKing Charles III has a rainy coronation day – just like his mother's. Here are other similarities and differences between the ceremonies. -ValueCore
King Charles III has a rainy coronation day – just like his mother's. Here are other similarities and differences between the ceremonies.
View
Date:2025-04-16 02:06:20
Some people say rain on a wedding day is good luck – but what about a coronation day? Well, it rained for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953 and it is raining during the coronation for her son, King Charles III.
According to weather records for June 2, 1953, the morning began with clouds and "spot or two of rain" which became heavier. The cloudy weather continued throughout the day and it was cold for June, according the U.K.'s Met Office.
As journalist Ellen Castelow wrote for Historic U.K.: "The only problem on the actual day was the typical British weather…it poured with rain!"
During King Charles III coronation on May 6, a tent was propped up at the entrance of Westminster Abbey to shield guests from the rain. The weather was 57 degrees Fahrenheit and rainy, which was expected to persist until the afternoon.
There are some other similarities between the two coronations. Both monarchs assumed the role after their parent died, but their coronations were held months later. Queen Elizabeth II's coronation was not held for more than a year after her father, King George VI died in 1952. King Charles III is being coronated about eight months after his mother died.
At 74 years old, King Charles III is the oldest person to be crowned a British monarch. Queen Elizabeth II was not the youngest, but she was just 25 years old when she became the monarch. She was also Britain's longest-reigning monarch — and one of the longest-serving monarchs in the world — serving for more than 70 years until her death last year at 96.
Both were coronated at Westminster Abbey, as is customary, but there were some differences. Charles' wife, Camilla, will be crowned alongside him. She was initially given the title of queen consort, but coronation invitations referred to her as queen. Charles' father, Prince Phillip, was not crowned in 1953 with Queen Elizabeth. But he was by his wife's side for most of the momentous day.
Charles' ceremony is smaller than his mother's – with around 2,000 guests, compared to her 8,000. The regalia they wear will be different, as will the oath Charles recites and the procession route they take back to Buckingham Palace.
But once back at the palace, senior members of the royal family will gather on the balcony for their signature photo op, just as Queen Elizabeth II did on her coronation day.
- In:
- King Charles III
- British Royal Family
- Queen Elizabeth II
Caitlin O'Kane is a digital content producer covering trending stories for CBS News and its good news brand, The Uplift.
veryGood! (91289)
Related
- Woman dies after Singapore family of 3 gets into accident in Taiwan
- Save 41% On Philosophy Dry Shampoo and Add Volume and Softness to Your Hair
- Advocates from Across the Country Rally in Chicago for Coal Ash Rule Reform
- Nordstrom Rack's Clear the Rack Sale: Shop an Extra 25% Off on Top Brands Starting as Low as $6
- Which apps offer encrypted messaging? How to switch and what to know after feds’ warning
- Islanders, Get Your First Look at Ariana Madix on Love Island USA
- 24-Hour Flash Deal: Save 40% On the Revitalign Orthotic Memory Foam Suede Mules and Slip-Ons
- Project Runway All Stars Designer Prajjé Oscar on Being Himself & What Comes Next
- Working Well: When holidays present rude customers, taking breaks and the high road preserve peace
- True Thompson and Chicago West Mischievously Pay Tribute to Moms Khloe Kardashian and Kim Kardashian
Ranking
- Sonya Massey's father decries possible release of former deputy charged with her death
- Everything to Know About Vanderpump Rules Season 11
- True Thompson and Chicago West Mischievously Pay Tribute to Moms Khloe Kardashian and Kim Kardashian
- Madewell's High Summer Event: Score an Extra 25% off on Summer Staples Like Tops, Shorts, Dresses & More
- The Best Stocking Stuffers Under $25
- Zayn Malik's Steamy New Song “Love Like This” Will Make Your Heart Race
- Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin Reveal 2nd Wedding in the Works
- Fall Fashion Finds You Can Get on Sale Right Now: Sweaters, Scarves, Boots, Denim & More
Recommendation
'Malcolm in the Middle’ to return with new episodes featuring Frankie Muniz
TikToker AJ Clementine Undergoes Vocal Feminization Surgery
The alarming reason why the heat waves in North America, Europe are so intense
Salma Hayek’s Secret to Maintaining Her Appearance Will Surprise You
What do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?
A Reckoning in North Birmingham as EPA Studies the ‘Cumulative Impacts’ of Pollution and Racism
Rush to Build Carbon Pipelines Leaps Ahead of Federal Rules and Safety Standards
Wife of SpongeBob's Voice Actor Clarifies He's Not Dating Ariana Grande, Being Mistaken for Ethan Slater