FeaturesHistoryInterests

The tiara that became emblematic of an historic queen

For what may well be her last tiara appearance of her life as Monarch, Queen Margrethe II chose one of the most significant jewellery pieces in the Danish vault. And it was the tiara worn by Margrethe II in the first official photo of her following her accession in 1972. It has been emblematic of her historic reign for over half a century. Nicknamed the “Pearl Poiré Tiara” from the shape…
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History

The story behind the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior

At the main entrance of Westminster Abbey lies the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, the body of an unknown British soldier from the First World War. On 11 November 1920, the body was brought from France to be buried at The Abbey. While there is one body that lies in The Abbey…
History

The royal duchess who went from mistress to matriarch

t was a famous royal love story that shocked as much as it thrilled. John of Gaunt was the ultra-ambitious prince whose desire to be a king almost cost him his life, Katherine Swynford was the mysterious commoner who supplanted a queen in his affections. Their relationship lasted decades, survived a serious separation and ultimately led to the creation of a dynasty which would snatch the throne of…
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Asian RoyalsHistoryHistory

Rare Ming Dynasty artefact found in private home is to go for auction

A significant artefact of the Chinese Ming Dynasty will be put up for auction in London after spending almost eight decades in private hands.  The artefact in question is a decorative box that is believed to be part of a five-piece set of such items designed specifically for Emperor Xuande; the pieces all bear his reign’s characters etched at the bottom of the box and inside the…
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FeaturesHistoryState & Ceremonial

The coronation of England's first ''commoner'' queen

Elizabeth Woodville is considered to be the first commoner to be crowned as Queen of England. Her coronation, soon after her marriage to King Edward IV was revealed, was controversial at the time and would mark a formal beginning to a royal tenure that was filled with drama and conflict. Elizabeth Woodville was born in 1437. She was the first child of Richard Woodville and Jacquetta of…
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