Royal Week commenced in Scotland today as King Charles was given the keys to the city of Edinburgh in a significant ceremony. Participating in the traditional Ceremony of the Keys held in the gardens of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King marked the beginning of Royal Week, dedicated to honoring Scottish culture and traditions.
Upon arriving for the formal welcome to the Scottish capital, King Charles was welcomed amidst a light rain by a Royal Salute and Guard of Honour by Balaklava Company 5th Battalion Royal Regiment. Musical performances by The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Pipes and Drums of 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland included renditions of popular songs such as “I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)” by The Proclaimers and the Tartan Army’s anthem “Yes Sir, I can Boogie” by Baccara.
During the ceremony, King Charles interacted with senior military officials and received a royal salute, with Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge presenting him the keys to the city, placed on a red cushion. Mr. Aldridge welcomed the King, stating, “We, the Lord Provost and members of the City of Edinburgh Council, welcome Your Majesty to the capital city of your ancient and hereditary kingdom of Scotland and offer for your gracious acceptance the keys of Your Majesty’s good city of Edinburgh.”
In response, King Charles conveyed the traditional reply, saying, “I return these keys perfectly convinced that they cannot be placed in better hands than those of the Lord Provost and councillors of my good city of Edinburgh.” Approximately 200 individuals were invited to witness the ceremony from the palace garden in appreciation of their community contributions.
It is customary for the King to spend a week at the Palace of Holyroodhouse annually during Holyrood Week, also known as Royal Week, in Scotland.
