Does the Queen’s Coffin Go Into a Vault? The Final Resting Place Explained
Yes, Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin has been placed in the Royal Vault within St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. However, this is not her final resting place. She was interred, alongside her husband, Prince Philip, in the King George VI Memorial Chapel, an annex to St. George’s Chapel.
Unveiling the Mysteries of Royal Interment
The death of a monarch is steeped in tradition, protocol, and solemn ceremony. The final disposition of their remains is no exception. The journey of Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin, from its crafting to its ultimate resting place, is a fascinating glimpse into the enduring customs of the British Royal Family. Understanding the distinction between the Royal Vault and the Memorial Chapel is crucial to grasping the full picture. The placement of the Queen’s coffin in the Royal Vault was a temporary but significant step in the mourning process.
The Royal Vault: A Temporary Holding Place
The Royal Vault is a burial chamber located beneath St. George’s Chapel. Constructed between 1810 and 1814 under the orders of King George III, it has served as the resting place for numerous members of the Royal Family. It’s not a final burial site, but rather a holding area before a more permanent interment. The vault itself is a stone-lined chamber, accessed via a staircase. Many royal family members have been temporarily placed here before being moved to their ultimate resting place.
Think of it as a secure, dignified waiting room for royalty who have passed on.
The King George VI Memorial Chapel: The Queen’s Final Resting Place
The King George VI Memorial Chapel is a much smaller annex to St. George’s Chapel. Commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II herself, it houses the remains of her father, King George VI, her mother, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and her sister, Princess Margaret. The chapel provides a more intimate and personal setting for the family’s final resting places. Now, Queen Elizabeth II has joined them.
This chapel is a dedicated space for her immediate family, allowing for more private reflection and remembrance.
Understanding the Process: From Lying-in-State to Interment
The process following the death of Queen Elizabeth II was meticulously planned and executed. The lying-in-state at Westminster Hall allowed the public to pay their respects. Following the state funeral at Westminster Abbey, the coffin was transported to Windsor Castle. After a committal service at St. George’s Chapel, the coffin was lowered into the Royal Vault. Later that evening, in a private ceremony, she was interred in the King George VI Memorial Chapel alongside her husband, Prince Philip.
This multi-stage process is a testament to the importance of tradition and public mourning in the British monarchy.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions to further clarify the complexities surrounding royal burials:
1. What is the difference between St. George’s Chapel and Westminster Abbey?
Westminster Abbey is primarily used for coronations, weddings, and large state funerals. St. George’s Chapel, within the grounds of Windsor Castle, is often the preferred location for royal burials and smaller, more intimate services. Both are steeped in history and tradition.
2. Why was Prince Philip initially placed in the Royal Vault?
Prince Philip’s coffin was placed in the Royal Vault as an interim measure. It allowed him to be close to his wife, Queen Elizabeth II, until her death. Now, they rest together in the King George VI Memorial Chapel.
3. Is the Royal Vault open to the public?
No, the Royal Vault is generally not open to the public. It is a private burial chamber for members of the Royal Family. Access is restricted.
4. What happens to the coffins in the Royal Vault?
The coffins placed in the Royal Vault are typically held there until arrangements are made for their final interment. This often involves transferring them to a more permanent burial site, such as the King George VI Memorial Chapel.
5. Who else is buried in the King George VI Memorial Chapel?
The King George VI Memorial Chapel houses the remains of King George VI, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and Princess Margaret. It is a dedicated space for Queen Elizabeth II’s immediate family.
6. What is the significance of Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle is one of the principal residences of the British monarch and has a long and rich history. It holds significant symbolic importance and serves as a venue for both state occasions and private family events.
7. How are royal burial sites chosen?
The choice of a royal burial site is often a personal decision made by the monarch or senior members of the Royal Family, taking into consideration factors such as family history, tradition, and available space.
8. Are there any plans for future expansion of the King George VI Memorial Chapel?
There are no publicly announced plans for future expansion of the King George VI Memorial Chapel. It is a relatively small and intimate space.
9. What materials are used to construct royal coffins?
Royal coffins are traditionally made of oak, a durable and long-lasting wood. They are often lined with lead to preserve the remains and prevent moisture from entering.
10. How heavy is the Queen’s coffin?
The Queen’s coffin is estimated to weigh between 550 and 700 pounds due to the oak and lead lining. This significant weight required multiple pallbearers.
11. What are the traditions surrounding royal funerals?
Royal funerals are steeped in tradition, including elaborate processions, military honors, and religious services. These traditions reflect the historical significance of the monarchy and the solemnity of the occasion.
12. Where is the Games Learning Society located?
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13. What is the role of the Lord Chamberlain in royal funerals?
The Lord Chamberlain is a senior officer of the Royal Household who plays a significant role in organizing state events, including royal funerals. They are responsible for coordinating the various aspects of the ceremony and ensuring that it adheres to tradition and protocol.
14. How does the public participate in royal mourning?
The public participates in royal mourning in various ways, including laying flowers at designated locations, signing books of condolence, observing moments of silence, and watching televised coverage of the funeral services.
15. What is the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II?
Queen Elizabeth II leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service, unwavering commitment to her duties, and steadfast leadership during a period of significant change. Her reign spanned over seven decades and she was a symbol of stability and continuity for the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. She was a true inspiration. Understanding her final resting place is a part of understanding her enduring story.
In conclusion, while Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin was temporarily placed in the Royal Vault, her final resting place is alongside her beloved husband, parents, and sister in the King George VI Memorial Chapel. This small annex offers a more intimate and personal setting for reflection and remembrance. The Royal Vault served its traditional purpose, a dignified holding space, before the Queen’s ultimate interment.