The Scottish “Stone of Destiny” has been used in coronation ceremonies in Britain for centuries. Also on May 6, 2023 he is to play a role and in the coronation chair of King Charles III. (75) are used in Westminster Abbey. The coronation stone was blessed in a solemn ceremony on April 27 at Edinburgh Castle and sent to London. The British media report.
Scottish Prime Minister Humza Yousaf (38) attended the ceremony and spoke of a “significant, historic moment”. It is the first time in more than 25 years that the legendary Coronation Stone has left the castle. It is considered a sacred historical symbol of the Scottish monarchy and is revered as a national treasure in Scotland. It had been discussed in advance whether the Destiny Stone should be sent to London for the coronation. Some supporters of Scottish independence had spoken out against it. The transport takes place under strict security conditions. Because the stone has already been stolen several times.
The stone, weighing 125 kilograms, is said to have magical powers. The head of the prophet Jacob is said to have rested on him when he received the vision of the ladder to heaven. That’s why the stone is also called Jacob’s pillow. He is also said to have been part of the throne of King David. The English King Edward I brought him to London in 1296. There the stone was set in a throne in Westminster Abbey. Since then it has been used at the coronations of English and British monarchs.
It was also used at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) in 1953. That was almost prevented when Scottish students stole the stone at Christmas 1950 and took it to Scotland. However, he was found in the ruins of Arbroath Abbey, 800 kilometers away, and brought to the British capital. In 1996 the “Stone of Destiny” returned permanently to Scotland. There it is part of the exhibition at Edinburgh Castle together with the Scottish Crown Jewels. After the coronation on May 6, he will be transported there again.
