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What are the Crown Jewels?The Crown Jewels, famous worldwide, are a symbol of monarchy for the British people and part of their national heritage. The collection includes the regalia (those items used at a coronation), other crowns and pieces donated by various Sovereigns, church and banqueting plate, orders, insignia and robes, and a unique collection of medals.England is the only European monarchy still using its regalia for the consecration ceremony of crowning the Sovereign. On arrival at Westminster Abbey, the Sovereign is escorted to the Chair of State by individuals carrying the processional regalia, including two of the royal maces, three swords (Mercy, Spiritual Justice and Temporal Justice), the Great Sword of State and St Edward's Staff. After the coronation oath comes the anointing, using the ampulla and spoon, followed by dressing in the coronation robes. The golden spurs, the jewelled sword, the armills, the orb, the coronation ring and the sceptres are then presented. The climax comes when the Archbishop of Canterbury places St Edward's Crown on the Sovereign's head. Some of the regalia are used at other times, for example, the State Opening of Parliament. The Crown Jewels have been housed in the Tower of London since 1303 following a theft from Westminster Abbey. In 1649, Cromwell had most of the regalia melted down; replacements were made for Charles II's coronation in 1661. The most famous attempt at theft was made in 1671 by Colonel Blood, who was caught at the East Gate with the crown, one sceptre and the orb. The collection was moved to a secret location during the Second World War, but was returned to the Tower in 1945. They are now kept in a specially designed Jewel House at the Tower, opened by The Queen in March 1994. |
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