Flowers, flags and more: the British capital can hardly wait for the day of King Charles III’s coronation. The “Krone” is on site and reports on the preparations.
Westminster Abbey, Thursday afternoon: The sun is shining in the sky, it’s warm, people are in a good mood. While thousands upon thousands of people from around the world will bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth II in September, similar crowds will try to catch a glimpse of the newly crowned king on Saturday.
It is still relatively quiet here at the moment. Pay attention relatively, because it is never really quiet here. But none of the souvenir serenades and street vendors who lined up in this area on other days can be seen.
Typically British
The streets around the Church of the British Crown have already been cordoned off over a large area and there are police officers and friendly-looking security guards on every corner. After the Queen’s funeral at the latest, the British know how to deal with curious Royal fans – always friendly and polite, but firm. Typically British.
Also typically British: the red, blue and white balloons and the numerous “Union Jacks” (that’s the name of the flag of the United Kingdom, ed.), which seem to hang everywhere. They also spread anticipation – and really: the city is literally buzzing with curiosity and excitement, everyone waiting for the new, old king.
Between protest and anticipation
And in the midst of all this, Katie laughs out of a group of tourists: “The demand for special King Charles tours is huge, we have a lot to do,” the city guide says in passing before disappearing around the next corner with her, enchanting listeners.
A few steps further, a security guard explains that protests are expected – in particular, an ever-growing group of young Britons do not see why the king and his family should be supported financially by the taxpayer, while the royals themselves have no ordinary job . Especially given the enormous wealth of the royal family and in the run-up to the coronation – which costs around £100 million and, you guessed it – is paid for from the tax coffers – the criticism is getting louder.
Peter, who has come all the way from New York, cannot understand this resistance to the British crown: “We will camp here, I already have the right outfit,” he says, putting on his cardboard crown. He wears matching red, blue and white sunglasses and a shirt that reads “God Save The King”.
His friend Alastor laughs: “I’m from London, but I’m definitely going to see this spectacle live and in the front row. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event – something that only happens once in a lifetime. We are very happy!” And anticipation is known as the greatest joy.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
