How many crowns are in the Tower of London? This question often piques the curiosity of visitors to one of the most iconic landmarks in England. The Tower of London, a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in London, has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. It has been a royal residence, a prison, a place of execution, and even a zoo. Among its many treasures, the most famous are the Crown Jewels, which are displayed in the Jewel House within the Tower. But how many crowns are actually housed there? Let’s delve into the fascinating history and collection of these royal regalia.
The Tower of London has been the repository for the Crown Jewels since the 17th century. The collection includes not only crowns but also scepters, orbs, and a variety of other royal ornaments. The most famous of these is the Imperial State Crown, which is worn by the British monarch on coronation day. This magnificent crown is adorned with over 3,000 precious stones, including the Cullinan II diamond, which is the largest clear diamond in the world.
When it comes to the number of crowns in the Tower of London, the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. The collection has evolved over the centuries, with crowns being added or removed for various reasons. Currently, there are four crowns on display in the Jewel House: the Imperial State Crown, the Coronation Crown, the St. Edward’s Crown, and the Crown of King Edward II. However, this does not account for all the crowns that have ever been part of the collection.
The St. Edward’s Crown, which is said to be the oldest crown in the collection, dates back to the 17th century. It is traditionally used for the coronation of the British monarch and is also placed on the altar at the State Opening of Parliament. The Coronation Crown, on the other hand, was made for the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1838 and is used for special occasions, such as the State Opening of Parliament.
The Imperial State Crown, which is worn by the monarch on the occasion of the State Opening of Parliament, is the most ornate of the four crowns. It was made for the coronation of King Edward VIII in 1911 and contains a number of significant diamonds, including the Cullinan II and the Stuart Sapphire.
While the four crowns on display are the most well-known, there are other crowns that have been part of the collection over the years. For example, the Crown of King Edward II, which is not currently on display, was made for his coronation in 1308. Additionally, there have been other crowns used for specific purposes, such as the Coronation Crown of Charles II, which was made for his coronation in 1661.
The Tower of London’s collection of crowns is a testament to the rich history of the British monarchy. Each crown has its own story and significance, and the number of crowns in the collection reflects the ever-evolving nature of the British royal family. So, the answer to the question “How many crowns are in the Tower of London?” is not just a number; it is a story of power, tradition, and the enduring legacy of the British monarchy.
