It’s been 50 years since Prince Charles was formally invested as the Prince of Wales by his mother Queen Elizabeth. At age 20, the future King was crowned at Caernarfon Castle on July 1, 1969. Charles is the 21st royal to hold the title, and in 2017, became the longest-serving Prince of Wales in history. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the investiture, we’re taking a look back at the historic ceremony. Click for photos...
The Queen created Prince Charles The Prince of Wales on July 26, 1958, when Princes William and Harry’s father was only nine years old, before investing the title 11 years later in a televised event. The title of Prince of Wales is created for male heirs of the British Throne. While there is no automatic succession to the title, it is normally passed on when the existing Prince of Wales accedes the throne. The title becomes merged in the Crown and is renewed only by the Sovereign's pleasure. The title began with Edward II, who was created Prince of Wales by his father Edward I in 1301.
According to the BBC, more than 4,000 guests attended the ceremony at the castle, while 90,000 lined the streets of Caernarfon. Charles’ investiture as Prince of Wales was watched worldwide by 500 million people.
Despite the pomp and splendor, Charles' big day faced hostility from Welsh extremists. Hours before the ceremony, there was an explosion 15 miles from the castle. Another bomb went off near a railway line shortly after the arrival of the royal family.
Charles' sister, Princess Anne (center), as well as his aunt Princess Margaret (left), and maternal grandmother, the Queen Mother (right) attended the investiture ceremony. The royal women donned colorful outfits for the occasion.