What is the Vigil of the Princes? | The Sun
THE Vigil of the Princes dates back to the death of King George V in 1936.
The old royal tradition has been honoured for every passing monarch since – here's everything you need to know.
Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8 at her Scottish residence, Balmoral, before returning to London last night.
A Vigil of the Princes already took place for Her Majesty on Monday while her coffin lay in state at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh.
But another one will also be carried out when the coffin reaches Westminster Hall where it will lie in state again before the funeral next week.
What is the Vigil of the Princes?
The Vigil of the Princes is a royal tradition and something which has been honoured since the passing of King George V in 1936.
When the coffin of royalty lies in state, members of the royal family will 'stand guard'.
And the Queen's daughter, Princess Anne, was the first woman to take part.
She was joined by her three brothers, King Charles III, Prince Edward and Prince Andrew.
A Vigil of the Princes has only happened twice before including for the Queen Mother's funeral which was carried out by her four grandsons.
It did not happen after the death of King George VI in 1952 because he had no sons.
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What happens during the Vigil of the Princes?
The main reason for the vigil is to show respect and commemorate the monarch.
When the coffin of royalty lies in state, four members of the royal family will stand on each side of it facing outwards.
The members are historically all men which is why it's called 'Vigil of the Princes'.
The four members will usually bow their heads and stand in silence to pay their respects.
How long do the Princes stand Vigil?
The vigil usually lasts for around 10 minutes.
Once the time is over, the royal family will leave and the coffin will then lie in state.
This usually gives the public a chance to view the coffin ahead of the funeral.
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