Coronation Cross Makes Rare Appearance in Royal Spotlight at King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Pre-Easter Tradition

The Cross of Wales played a significant role in recent royal ceremonies, with its presence felt during both the May 2023 coronation of King Charles III and the more recent Royal Maundy Service held on April 2, 2026, at St. Asaph Cathedral in north Wales. The cross, a symbolically rich artefact, highlights the ongoing traditions of the British monarchy and its connection to the Church in Wales.

At the Royal Maundy Service, a time-honoured event that occurs annually on the Thursday before Easter, King Charles and Queen Camilla walked into the cathedral, where the Cross of Wales led the procession. This ceremony involves the distribution of Maundy money—special coins given to local pensioners in a commemorative gesture reminiscent of Jesus washing the feet of the Apostles at the Last Supper.

The Cross of Wales had already made headlines during King Charles’s coronation day at Westminster Abbey just months before. This regal object not only marked the crowning of the new monarch but also returned to the public eye at a time when the royal family acknowledges and embraces its ties to the Church in Wales, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Commissioned by King Charles in 2020 to celebrate the centenary of the Church in Wales, the Cross of Wales is a remarkable piece made by master silversmith Michael Lloyd. Constructed from recycled silver, Welsh timber, and slate, the design signifies a blend of craftsmanship and environmental consideration. Engraved on the back of the cross are words from the last sermon of St. David, the patron saint of Wales, conveying a message of joy and faith.

The cross’s significance was elevated when Pope Francis presented King Charles with two splinters of wood believed to be from the True Cross, which were embedded within the Cross of Wales shortly before the coronation. This personal gesture from the Pope not only strengthened ties between the monarchy and the Vatican but also underscored King Charles’s dedication to interfaith dialogue, a cause he has championed throughout his life.

After making a notable appearance during the coronation, the Cross of Wales was officially transferred to the Church of Wales in early 2024. It has since toured various cathedrals across Wales, allowing the public to engage with this symbol of religious heritage. Following its travels, the cross was shared between Anglican and Catholic churches, further illustrating its importance in the spiritual landscape of the nation.

Relations between the monarchy and Wales remain particularly poignant for King Charles, who held the title of Prince of Wales for 64 years before ascending to the throne. His deep ties with Wales and its culture resonate clearly during events like the Royal Maundy Service, marking the continuity of royal tradition.

Despite the generally celebratory atmosphere of the Maundy Service, their visit was not without controversy. Outside St. Asaph Cathedral, graffiti proclaiming “Not Our King” surfaced, reflecting anti-monarchy sentiments. North Wales Police have since acknowledged the incident and commenced an investigation while the local council works to remove the offensive messages.

As King Charles prepares for further royal duties, including leading an Easter service at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle on April 5, the importance of the Cross of Wales and its role in royal traditions continues to be a focal point. The cross not only serves as a significant religious artefact but also as a reminder of the intertwined history of the monarchy and the Church, a narrative that continues to evolve in modern Britain.

The poignant symbolism of the Cross of Wales, coupled with the royal family’s commitment to honour established traditions, underscores their mission to connect with diverse communities across the UK. As the king and queen continue their royal engagements, they navigate both celebration and dissent, embodying the complexities of contemporary monarchy in Britain.