King Charles III: coronations past and present

The ceremonies and customs that surround the accession of a new sovereign are steeped in tradition.

At a local level, the proclamation of a new king or queen is a solemn occasion, led by civic leaders, while the coronation is a holiday, with food, music and celebration.

Since the thirteenth century, when King John granted his charters to Neath Abbey and Swansea and Edward I spent the night at Oystermouth Castle, West Glamorgan has had a long association with the monarchy.

This is the story of how proclamations and coronations have been celebrated in West Glamorgan over the years.

Proclaiming King Charles in Swansea and Port Talbot

The proclamation of the new sovereign is a solemn ceremony

How the new sovereign is proclaimed

The wording of the proclamation is an officially approved text, and it has traditionally been delivered with solemnity and in front of important dignitaries.