Camilla Parker, Duchess of Cornwall, is still firmly in the race to become the future Queen of England. The wife of Prince Charles made her debut, this June 14, as a Dame of the Order of the Garter, the oldest and highest-ranking knighthood in Britain, established by King Edward III almost 700 years ago.
A dream day has lived the Duchess of Cornwall, who never thought she would reach this moment in her life after being Prince Charles’ lover while he was married to Princess Diana.
Camilla Parker receives the Order of the Garter
The naming ceremony took place in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle and, although other members of the royal family attended, Camilla was the star of the show.
Through a private ceremony in the throne room of the Garret at Windsor Castle, Camilla took the oath of accession to the organization. This was followed by a luncheon and church service in the same chapel.
Prince Charles, his son, Prince William, Kate Middleton, Princess Anne, Earl Edward and Sophie of Wessex also took part in the traditional procession to the chapel dressed in their blue velvet and ermine robes, badges and hats with feathers, the official dress of the members of this order. Camilla also wore her premiere attire.
Although the Queen did not attend the ceremony due to her mobility problems, photographs were circulated of Her Majesty accompanying the Duchess and Prince Charles.
“This afternoon the Garter Day procession took place in the grounds of Windsor Castle for the first time in three years. A key element of Garter Day is the investing of new Companions with the Order’s Insignia. This is done by The Queen, The Sovereign of the Garter, in the Throne Room. Today, The Duchess of Cornwall became a Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter”, was part of the message accompanying the photographs.
