What is a Queen Consort? How Camilla’s new title differs from Queen

Several titles have changed as the line of succession shifts

The Coronation of the King and the Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6.

The service, which will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, is rooted in longstanding royal traditions and pageantry.

After the service, their majesties will return to Buckingham Palace in a larger ceremonial procession, known as the Coronation Procession. King Charles and Camilla will be joined in this procession by other members of the Royal Family.

At Buckingham Palace, the King and Queen Consort, accompanied by other family members, will appear on the balcony to conclude the day’s ceremonial events.

With so much to look forward to and celebrate, here’s a look at what Camilla’s new title of queen consort means.

What is the Queen Consort?

A queen consort is the wife of a reigning king, a position currently held by King Charles’s wife, Camilla.

A queen consort usually shares her spouse's social rank and status, holding the female equivalent of the king's monarchical titles.

She may be crowned and anointed, but historically she does not formally share the regnant's political and military powers, unless when acting as regent, for whatever reason.

HM Queen Elizabeth II - In pictures

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What is the difference between a queen consort and a queen?

The difference between a queen consort and a queen is that a queen consort does not have the same political power.

The queen consort is not a ruler in her own right, unlike the Queen, and her monarchical title only comes from her husband.

Once King Charles is no longer king, Queen Consort Camilla will no longer hold that title.

Will Camilla be referred to as the Queen?

As queen consort, Camilla will officially be called Her Majesty Queen Consort Camilla, rather than the Queen.

While some may casually refer to her as the Queen, the proper title is queen consort.

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