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Queen Elizabeth’s coffin began its journey on Sunday to the British capital, London, before her state funeral on September 19.
On the first leg of the journey, the Queen’s coffin was taken from Balmoral Castle in Scotland, to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
The casket left Balmoral around 10:00 local time, slowly making its way overland to Edinburgh, a six-hour journey that stretched more than 280 kilometres.
Thousands of people lined up along the road.
The coffin arrived at Holyroodhouse House – the official residence of the royal family in the Scottish capital, where it will lie in the throne room until Tuesday, before being transferred to London.
In London, King Charles III met, on Sunday, the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth at Buckingham Palace. He later hosted in the Arch Hall of the Palace High Commissioners from the countries he presided over.
This came the day following Charles was officially proclaimed king at St James’s Palace in London.
Following the announcement, the king praised his mother’s “unparalleled ruling”, adding that her death was an “irreparable loss.”
photo released, Archyde.com
In a speech during the official proclamation at St James’s Palace, King Charles III said:
“It is my greatest consolation, to realize the sympathy that so many have for my sister and brothers. Such great affection must extend to our entire family for our loss.”
He spoke of the Queen’s “dedicated service”, saying: “My mother’s rule was unparalleled in its duration, sincerity and dedication.”
“Even when we are sad, we give thanks for this life full of devotion,” he said.
The king added that he would “strive to emulate the inspiring example” set by his mother in shouldering the “heavy responsibilities of sovereignty”.
It was the first time that the official announcement ceremony, which dates back centuries, was broadcast on television.
