The Coronation of a new Sovereign takes place in the months after their accession, following a period of mourning. In a similar but simpler ceremony, the Queen Consort will also be crowned alongside His Majesty The King as part of the service on Saturday 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey. We have released a free short film for primary-aged children explaining the history and importance of the Coronation, the role of The King, and the significance of the Monarchy around the world.
However, a coronation does have three key purposes. First and foremost, it has a religious significance, with the monarch making promises to God as part of a Christian ceremony. Secondly, while the monarch has acquired the status and authority at their accession, it is at the coronation that the monarch makes promises to the people that they serve. Finally, it is a moment for public celebration and affirmation in a way that would be inappropriate in the days and weeks following the accession. In order for the Royal Family and the nation to grieve the loss of the monarch, there is always a significant gap between accession and coronation.
