Photos show the moment Charles was officially crowned king, making history as the oldest British monarch
Maria Noyen,Mikhaila Friel
King Charles III is crowned king at his coronation ceremony on May 6.Sky News
- King Charles took the throne when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September 2022.
- His reign was formalized at his coronation on Saturday, which involved sacred traditions.
King Charles III took over the throne from his predecessor and mother, Queen Elizabeth II, when she died in September 2022.
King Charles III attends the Committal Service for Queen Elizabeth II at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on September 19, 2022, in Windsor, England. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
Upon the death of the Queen, Charles immediately was proclaimed the monarch. However, his reign wasn't formalized until his coronation, which took place on Saturday.
In front of millions tuning in from around the world and the roughly 2,200 guests invited to the special ceremony at Westminster Abbey, Charles cemented his place in British royal history. At 73, he is the oldest British monarch to have ever taken the throne. Take a look at these photos showing the start of his reign.
The official crowning of Charles started with the five phases. The first involved guests saluting him with the "God Save the King!" chant.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on May 6. Victoria Jones/Pool via REUTERS
Then, the king made an oath promising to support the Church of England and the law.
King Charles III during his coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on May 6. BBC News
In the third phase, Charles was anointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. The king is the first monarch in history to use animal cruelty-free anointment oil.
King Charles III at his coronation on May 6. VICTORIA JONES/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Charles then received royal regalia, including an orb and sceptre.
King Charles receives royal regalia during his coronation on May 6. BBC News
Finally, Charles was crowned King of the United Kingdom with the St Edward's Crown, the same crown Queen Elizabeth was crowned with 70 years ago.
His Majesty King Charles III is crowned king of the United Kingdom on May 6. BBC News
The Archbishop of Canterbury appeared to check the crown was on Charles' head securely. The crown is made of gold and weighs almost 5 pounds.
King Charles being crowned. BBC News
Source: Royal Collection Trust
Prince William then pledged his allegiance to Charles before guests in the abbey and the public watching the televised event were invited to do the same.
Prince William pledged his allegiance to King Charles. BBC News
Camilla was then crowned with the Queen Mary Crown, officially making her Queen of the United Kingdom.
Queen Camilla is crowned. Sky News
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