Graduate student contribution

Introduction to The Queen’s Majesty’s Passage

Although the form of the Royal Entry has been modified since its beginnings in the thirteenth century, its social function survives in English royal culture and politics today. The same love for entertainment and spectacle that draws a crowd toward parades today also drew crowds to a historical event rich in pageantry and cultural significance. The purpose of the entry was to deliver the soon-to-be crowned king or queen through London, the day prior to his or her coronation. An intimidating procession of footmen and councillors, along with their future regent, marched through the streets of London from the Tower in the East to Westminster Abbey. The entry allowed the common people to view their future ruler and to welcome him or her with gifts and pageants.
This was a staged event that took months of planning and preparation, and required the efforts of many planners and craftsmen. The aldermen paid for the costly materials and labour. The final project not only reflected the wealth of the livery companies, but also revealed their admiration and devotion to their regent. The presentations for the entry were not simple productions. The pageants and route followed a consistent pattern that had been established for hundreds of years.
Beginning at the Tower, the future king or queen was welcomed by the Lord Mayor of London. The Lord Mayor then escorted the future regent through the gates of London, proceeding through the district of Cheapside, until the arrival at Westminster. The following day, the coronation took place at Westminster, and the festivities would continue.
Route of The Queen’s Majesty’s Passage.
Route of The Queen’s Majesty’s Passage.