The British royal family follows several grand traditions, but some customs come from surprisingly strange superstitions. From unlucky wedding dates to ravens believed to protect the Crown, these royal beliefs have survived for centuries.
1. Coronation Mistakes Are Seen As Bad Omens
A British monarch’s coronation should be a joyful occasion, but it also carries huge pressure. According to royal superstition, any mistake during the ceremony could act as a bad omen and predict an unsuccessful reign for the new sovereign.
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2. Certain Gemstones Supposedly Hold Special Powers
Royal jewelry is not only about beauty. Since medieval times, people have believed that gemstones carry mythical powers. Sapphires supposedly deepen devotion and loyalty while bringing financial prosperity and stability. Queen Victoria even wore a sapphire on her wedding day. Princess Diana’s famous sapphire engagement ring, which Kate Middleton now wears, also carries these special meanings.
3. The Tower Ravens Supposedly Protect Britain
Six or seven ravens have lived at the Tower of London for more than 300 years. King Charles II ordered officials to protect the birds because he believed they helped preserve the monarchy and the nation. A long-standing warning claims, “If the Tower of London ravens are lost or fly away, the Crown will fall and Britain with it.” Visitors can still see the ravens’ quarters today.
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4. The Tower Gates Must Be Locked In A Special Ceremony
The Tower of London holds the Ceremony of the Keys every evening before 10 p.m. During the ritual, a ceremonial guardian known as a Beefeater walks through the grounds with a military escort and locks every gate. Modern security systems now protect the building, but officials continue the 700-year-old ceremony to guard the Tower and the Crown Jewels against intruders and thieves.
5. May Weddings Were Considered Unlucky
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle often went against royal convention, but their May 2018 wedding date may not have pleased Queen Victoria. The late monarch considered May an unlucky month for marriage. An old rhyme even warns, “Marry in May, and rue the day.”
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