The Queen recalls memories of Coronation ahead of 65th anniversary
The Queen will share childhood memories of the Coronation of her father, King George VI, and her own investiture for the first time in a new BBC documentary which explores the ancient ceremony.
As part of a new Royal Collection season on television and radio, the film also uncovers the symbolism of the Crown Jewels, the 140 items of Royal ornamentation represent the monarch’s duties and links to the people.
The Queen, who was crowned on June 2 1953 aged just 27, was invited to comment on both private and official film footage from the time and give her private thoughts on the occasion.
“I've seen one Coronation, and been the recipient in the other, which is pretty remarkable,” she told filmmakers.
As part of the documentary, to mark the 65th anniversary of The Coronation, The Queen also shared memories of the coronation of George VI which she attended when just nine years old in 1937.
“It is a real honour to have Her Majesty The Queen revealing her intimate knowledge of the Crown Jewels - and fond childhood memories from when her father was crowned King George VI in this very special film for BBC One,” said Charlotte Moore, BBC Director of Content.
“In her own words, The Queen will bring to life the enduring symbolic importance of the Coronation ceremonies for modern audiences to enjoy.”
The film also tells the story of St Edward’s Crown, which was destroyed after the English Civil War and remade for the Coronation of Charles II in 1661.
It has only been worn officially by the Queen once, at the moment she was crowned. The symbolism behind the 23,000 precious stones which make up the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia, is also fully explained by experts.
Royal historian Alastair Bruce, an expert on the coronation and a key contributor, said: “Post boxes, Police helmets, Income Tax Returns and almost every visual expression of the United Kingdom displays a Crown and Orb.
“The meaning of each of the key objects has evolved from emblems of authority that date way back before the Saxons arrived. Yet there is an enduring relevance to modern leadership wrapped into each symbol that express values of humility, duty and service, while representing total power.
“Discovering their meaning helps to define what the Sovereign is to the Crown and how that Crown is the property of us all, in the constitutional function of Monarchy.”
The film also features eyewitness accounts of those who participated in the 1953 Coronation, including a maid of honour who nearly fainted in the Abbey, and a 12-year-old choirboy who was left to sing solo when his overwhelmed colleagues lost their voices.
Other programmes in the Season include Art, Passion & Power: The Story of the Royal Collection which unveils some of the most spectacular works of art in the Royal Collection.
A special concert has also been recorded in the Grand Reception Room at Windsor Castle, which includes performances on historic instruments from the Royal Collection, broadcast on BBC Radio 3.
The programmes run from January.
