Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation took place on June 2, 1953, at Westminster Abbey in London. She became queen following the death of her father, King George VI, in 1952, but her formal coronation happened over a year later to allow for proper preparation.
The coronation was a grand event, blending centuries-old traditions with modern elements, including being the first British coronation to be televised, which allowed millions of people around the world to witness the ceremony. The service was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, and it included the queen taking an oath to serve the people and uphold the laws of her nations, as well as the anointing with holy oil and the crowning.
Queen Elizabeth wore the St. Edward’s Crown during the ceremony, which is made of solid gold and encrusted with precious gems. She also held the Sovereign’s Orb and Sceptre, symbols of her authority. The event marked the beginning of her long reign, which lasted until her passing in 2022.
