King Charles experienced a challenging reception as he visited Scotland for an event marking his coronation. Anti-royal activists expressed their discontent with the monarchy, raising concerns for the future of the monarchy under Charles’ reign.
Accompanied by Queen Camilla, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay (their Scottish titles), the royal family traveled to Edinburgh to partake in a ceremony where the Scottish crown jewels were presented to the monarch. Notably, during the event, Kate playfully tapped William on his lower back, displaying affection in public.
The grand ceremony, officially known as the National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication for King Charles III and Queen Camilla, took place at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. During the ceremony, Charles received the “Honours of Scotland,” which include the crown, orb, and sword of state. These artifacts were historically used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs before the unification of the English and Scottish crowns in 1603. The Scottish Crown itself dates back to 1540 and predates the crown jewels kept in the Tower of London.
Prior to the royal family’s procession, a “people’s procession” consisting of 100 individuals representing various aspects of Scottish life, including charities, took place.
However, not everyone welcomed the King’s presence in Edinburgh. Republic, an anti-monarchy group, had organized protesters to attend the event. While they were advised against booing or jeering during the people’s procession, their discontent was apparent when the royal party passed through the narrow streets. Signs expressing opposition to the monarchy, such as “Not our King” in Scottish Gaelic, were held up along the Royal Mile. A large banner calling for the abolition of the monarchy was also visible.
The co-leaders of the Scottish Green Party joined the protesters outside the cathedral, refusing to attend the service and advocating for an elected head of state. Monarchists in the crowd responded by booing the protesters and chanting phrases like “God Save the King” and “Charles, King of Scots.”
Despite the opposing views, Scotland’s First Minister, Humza Yousaf, who leads the Scottish National Party, attended the service and gave a reading to welcome the King to Scotland. Inside the cathedral, the royal family, adorned in ceremonial robes, including Kate in a vibrant royal blue ensemble by designer Catherine Walker, paid tribute to the late Queen by accessorizing with a pearl choker necklace previously worn by her.
Amidst their busy schedule, the Wales family’s recent activities included Princess Kate attending Wimbledon and Prince Charles taking young Prince George to witness The Ashes cricket match between England and Australia.