Make it official. King Charles III immediately took his rightful place as ruler when Queen Elizabeth II died at the age of 96 in September, and the coronation date has finally been set.
According to a press release from Buckingham Palace, the coronation – which is scheduled for May 6, 2023 – “will reflect the monarch’s role now and look to the future, while being rooted in long-standing traditions and pageantry.” The official event falls on the same day Prince Harry and Meghan Markleson Archie’s 4th birthday.
Charles, 73, previously performed the Ascension Ceremony on September 10, two days after his mother’s death. The service is part of Operation Golden Orb, which outlines a comprehensive plan for Charles to inherit the throne starting from Her Majesty’s death and ending with the coronation.
“My mother’s reign was unmatched in duration, dedication and devotion,” eldest daughter Elizabeth told the Ascension Council during the ceremony. “Although we are sad, we are grateful for this most faithful life. I am well aware of this great legacy and the heavy sovereign duties and responsibilities that have now been entrusted to me.”
The former Prince of Wales also vowed to follow in the footsteps of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. “In this goal, I know that I will be supported by the love and loyalty of the people who are kings, and when I do this task, I will be guided by the elected parliamentary council,” he said.
One of the first acts of the British native as king was to announce the day of his late mother’s funeral, September 19, a bank holiday in England. The day after Elizabeth’s death, Charles spoke to the nation as king for the first time.
“Wherever you live in the UK or in any region and region around the world and whatever your background or beliefs, I will strive to serve you with loyalty, respect and love as I have done throughout my life,” he said. . “My life will definitely change when I take on new responsibilities. I will not be able to give so much time and energy to charities and issues that I care about so much. But I know this important work will be done in the hands of others who trust me.
Prince William now first in line for the throne, followed by three children with Princess Kate – Prince George, 9, Princess Charlotte, 7, and Prince Louis, 4. Harry, 38, for the part, fifth in a row.
Scroll through to find out about the coronation: