The Windsor Castle Burial Chamber, also known as the Royal Vault, is a significant burial site for the British royal family, located beneath St. George’s Chapel within the walls of Windsor Castle. This sacred space has been the final resting place for many monarchs and their family members for centuries, preserving the rich history and traditions of the British monarchy.
History and Construction
The Royal Vault was excavated between 1804 and 1810 under the instruction of King George III, with the first interment taking place in 1810 for Princess Amelia, the youngest daughter of the king. The construction of the vault was a monumental undertaking, designed to provide a secure and dignified final resting place for the royal family.
Burials and Occupants
The Windsor Castle Burial Chamber currently houses the remains of 25 members of the royal family, including King George III, Queen Charlotte, and other notable royals. The vault has been the final resting place for many British monarchs and their family members since the 15th century, making it a testament to the enduring legacy of the British monarchy.
| Monarch | Year of Burial |
|---|---|
| King George III | 1820 |
| Queen Charlotte | 1818 |
| Princess Amelia | 1810 |
| Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh | 2021 |
Significance and Tradition
The Royal Vault is a symbol of the long history and tradition of the British monarchy. The vault is located beneath St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, which has been the site of many royal services, weddings, and burials for centuries. The tradition of burying senior members of the royal family in St. George’s Chapel was resumed in the 1930s, while junior members are interred in the Royal Burial Ground at Frogmore House.
King George VI Memorial Chapel
Within the walls of St. George’s Chapel, the King George VI Memorial Chapel is a significant burial site where Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest alongside her parents and sister. This chapel is a testament to the enduring legacy of the British monarchy and its historical ties to Windsor Castle.
St. George’s Chapel
St. George’s Chapel is a Royal Peculiar, meaning it is under the direct jurisdiction of the monarch, and is also the Chapel of the Order of the Garter. The chapel has been the scene of many royal services, weddings, and burials, including the annual Garter Service, further cementing its importance in the history of the British monarchy.
Royal Burial Ground
The Royal Burial Ground is a private cemetery for the royal family, consecrated in 1928, and is the designated burial site for junior members of the royal family. While not open to the public, the burial ground can be viewed from the perimeter on specific days when Frogmore House is open.
Other Burial Sites
While the Windsor Castle Burial Chamber is a significant royal burial site, it is not the only one. Westminster Abbey has been the burial site for many medieval and early modern kings and queens of England, while the Royal Mausoleum at Frogmore House houses the tombs of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, as well as other notable royals.
Unique Perspective
The Windsor Castle Burial Chamber and its associated sites offer a unique glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the British monarchy, highlighting the significance of Windsor Castle as a royal burial site. Visitors can explore the chapel, the burial ground, and the surrounding castle, gaining a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of the British royal family.
Quantifiable Details
- Cost: The cost of visiting Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel varies depending on the time of year and type of ticket. A standard adult ticket costs around £26.50.
- Timings: Windsor Castle is open from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM from April to October and from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM from November to March.
- Directory: Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ, UK.
- Hours: The castle is open daily, except for December 25 and 26.
- Rates: Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and type of ticket.
- Value: The historical significance and cultural importance of Windsor Castle and its burial sites make it a valuable and unique tourist destination.