The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla will follow traditions that have been in use since the 14th century, thanks to the Liber Regalis. This six-century-old manuscript, written in
Latin and inscribed on vellum, is the template for the coronation service, and ensures that the event will be carried out in accordance with its instructions.
Belonging to Westminster Abbey, the Liber Regalis, also known as the Royal Book, is an illustrated medieval manuscript that outlines the order of events in a coronation service. Although its origins are uncertain, it is widely associated with the year 1382, when Anne of Bohemia, the first queen consort of Richard II, was crowned on January 22nd.
The purpose of the Liber Regalis is clear. It was created to provide a template for important royal events, including the coronation of a king, the coronation of a king and queen consort together, and the separate crowning of a queen consort. It also includes details on how a monarch’s funeral should unfold.
During the time the Liber Regalis was written, the role of Earl Marshal was already established. This member of the royal household was responsible for organizing major regal events, and the Liber Regalis served as a handbook for many generations of Earl Marshals.
The coronation service outlined in the Liber Regalis involves several stages, including the Recognition, where the monarch or consort is presented to the people, followed by the Oath, in which they make solemn promises. The Anointing, which is the most sacred part of the ceremony, involves using holy oil to make crosses on the monarch's head, hands, and chest. The Coronation then follows, which takes place within a Eucharist service.
Minor alterations have been made to the ceremony since the Liber Regalis was written, and it was fully translated into English in the 17th century. However, all coronations since the end of the 14th century have followed the pattern set out in the manuscript.
Today, the Liber Regalis is on display in the Diamond Jubilee Galleries at Westminster Abbey. The galleries were opened by Queen Elizabeth II and her heir, Prince Charles, and when Charles is crowned, the ceremony will take place in the Coronation Theatre below the galleries, in accordance with the instructions set out in the manuscript.
In conclusion, the Liber Regalis is an important manuscript that has been in use for centuries, and will ensure that the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla follows the traditions established in the 14th century. Its detailed instructions have been used to guide generations of Earl Marshals, and it remains a significant part of British royal history. Photo by Wikimedia commons.