Royal Family News: Why Is Camilla A Queen Consort And Not A Queen?

British royal family news reveals that Queen Elizabeth’s oldest child, 73-year old Charles became King upon the passing of his mother on September. His wife, Camilla Parker Bowles, became Queen Consort. Why is Camilla a Consort and not just a Queen? It’s a very valid question and we dare say that the answer may shock you!

Royal Family News: Royal Family News: Camilla Is a Consort

In the British monarchy, the queen consort is not in the line of succession, and is given the title through marriage. It denotes the wife of a reigning monarch, and it conveys that they have the same social status.

According to The New York Times the British queen consort does not hold a formal position in government. Nonetheless, Camilla Parker Bowles will be crowned in a formal ceremony, and will be next to King Charles at his coronation.

Now to the next question: Is Camilla the only Queen Consort in existence? Nope! Today there are 13 queens consort across the globe and 9 queens consort in federal monarchies.

Royal Family News – How Many Queens Consort Are There?

What is the process to becoming a Queen Consort? It is typical that, the wife of the reigning monarch becomes queen when her husband takes the throne. But in this instance, in February, Queen Elizabeth bequeathed Camilla the title.

Now comes the next logical question, are there King Consorts? It is possible, but rare in comparison.

Traditionally husbands of reigning UK monarchs are referred to as princes consort. This is because if they were titled kings consort, they would be considered “higher ranked” as a king.

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Royal Family News – Prince Philip Was Prince Consort

Queen Elizabeth’s husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, was known as Prince Consort although mainly referred to simply as Prince Philip.

Finally, let’s distinguish the difference between a Queen and a Queen Consort. The former is the head of the monarchy and inherits the title from her family. For example, Queen Elizabeth was also the head of state and the face of the monarchy.

In contrast, a queen consort is married to the monarch and does not have the political sway that a queen does. Now that you’re up to date on the intricacies of Charles and Camilla’s reign, save this date: May 6, 2023. That is the grand day that of King Charles’ coronation ceremony—cheers!

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with the royal family. Come back here often for royal family news and updates.

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