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Discover Westminster Abbey coronation history | Key insights into royal ceremonies

Since 1066, the Westminster Abbey coronation has crowned every English and British monarch. Steeped in symbolism, these ceremonies combine sacred anointing, ancient regalia, and historic oaths, cementing the Abbey’s role as the heart of royal tradition and national identity.

The coronation ceremony

westminster abbey coronations
  • Sacred anointing: The most spiritual act, where holy oil is applied to the monarch, symbolising divine blessing and the sacred authority of kingship.
  • Royal oath: The monarch swears an oath to uphold justice, protect the church, and govern faithfully in service to the people.
  • Crowning moment: The Archbishop of Canterbury places the crown upon the monarch’s head, formally confirming their authority and role as sovereign.
  • Processional entry: The monarch enters Westminster Abbey in a grand procession, accompanied by clergy, officials, regalia, and symbolic displays of royal power.
  • Coronation music: Specially composed pieces, such as Handel’s Zadok the Priest, provide a powerful musical backdrop that elevates the ceremony’s grandeur.
  • Communal celebration: Following the crowning, hymns and acclamations ring through the Abbey, uniting the congregation and the country in shared recognition of the monarchy.
Westminster Abbey history

Key regalia relevant to the Westminster Abbey coronation

The Coronation Chair 

Commissioned by Edward I in 1296, the Coronation Chair has seated almost every English and British monarch. It was built to house the Stone of Scone, making it the most enduring symbol of royal succession in Britain.

The Stone of Scone

Also called the Stone of Destiny, this ancient relic represents the Scottish monarchy and unity. Seized by Edward I, it was placed beneath the Coronation Chair, linking English and Scottish traditions during coronations. It was returned to Scotland in 1996.

The Imperial State Crown

Used at the conclusion of coronations, this crown is set with nearly 3,000 gemstones, including the Cullinan II diamond. It represents the sovereign’s authority, with its glittering jewels reflecting the power and continuity of Britain’s monarchy.

The Coronation Spoon

Surprisingly humble, this medieval silver spoon is used for the anointing oil, making it one of the most sacred regalia pieces. Its simplicity contrasts with the grandeur of other objects but underscores the ceremony’s deep spiritual foundations.

The Orb and Sceptres

These regalia items represent Christian kingship and royal authority. The orb symbolises global responsibility under God, while the sceptres embody temporal and spiritual power, handed to the monarch during the ceremony to reinforce their governing responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Westminster Abbey coronations

Why was Westminster Abbey chosen as the site for coronations?

Its central location, royal associations, and sacred status since Edward the Confessor established it as the traditional coronation church.

Have every English and British monarch been crowned at Westminster Abbey?

Since William the Conqueror in 1066, every monarch has been crowned at Westminster Abbey, except Edward V and Edward VIII, who never had coronations.

Are parts of the coronation service conducted in Latin today?

While historically Latin was used, modern coronations are primarily in English, with occasional phrases retained for tradition’s sake.

What happens to the regalia between coronations?

They are kept in the Tower of London’s Jewel House, where they can be viewed by the public year-round.

Have coronations at Westminster Abbey ever faced disruptions?

Yes, some, such as William the Conqueror’s in 1066, saw unrest, while others, like Edward VII’s, were delayed by illness.

How long does a typical coronation ceremony last?

Traditionally lasting about three hours, modern coronations may be slightly shorter while retaining essential symbolic and ceremonial elements.

How many people attend a coronation inside Westminster Abbey?

Attendance varies, with modern coronations hosting about 2,000 guests, while earlier ceremonies accommodated fewer within the Abbey’s limited space.

Were coronations always televised or broadcast?

No, the first televised coronation was Elizabeth II’s in 1953, reaching millions worldwide and marking a new media era.

Does the public participate in coronations at Westminster Abbey?

Direct participation is limited, but acclamations like “God Save the King” involve the congregation, representing national recognition of monarchy.

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