The Ceremony of the Keys is a centuries-old ritual that takes place at the Tower of London, one of the most famous landmarks in United Kingdom. This ceremony has been performed without fail for over 700 years, making it one of the oldest surviving traditions in the world.
History and Significance
The ceremony's origins can be traced back to the 14th century, a time when the Tower of London served not only as a royal palace but also as a fortress and prison. The keys to the Tower were crucial for security, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility for the safety of the Tower from the day staff to the night watch.
Here are some key points:
- First Record: The ceremony was first recorded in 1340, but it is believed to have started earlier.
- Continuity: The ceremony has continued every night since its inception, except for a brief interruption during the World War II bombings when it was performed in the basement of the White Tower for safety.
- Symbolism: The keys symbolize the sovereign's authority over the Tower of London, and the ceremony underscores the continuity of the monarch's control over this historic site.
The Ceremony
The Ceremony of the Keys takes place at exactly 9:53 PM every night. Here's how it unfolds:
- Preparation: The Chief Yeoman Warder (also known as the Ravenmaster) prepares the keys, which are locked in a cupboard until the ceremony begins.
- The Lock-Up: At 9:53 PM, the Chief Yeoman Warder locks the main gate with the keys, accompanied by a small escort of soldiers from the Household Division.
- The Challenge: As they proceed, they are challenged by sentries at several points. The Chief Yeoman Warder responds with the password "Halt! Who comes there?" and the response is "The keys." The challenge continues with "Whose keys?" and the answer "Queen's keys." Finally, the sentry says, "Pass, Queen's Keys. All's well."
- The Return: The group then returns to the Bloody Tower, where the keys are secured for the night.
- The Last Post: A bugler sounds "The Last Post" at the conclusion, marking the end of the day's official duties.
- Inspection: The Chief Yeoman Warder then inspects the Tower's outer walls to ensure all is secure.
Public Viewing
The ceremony is a public event, although limited to a small number of visitors who can apply for tickets in advance. It's a unique opportunity for tourists and history enthusiasts to witness a piece of living history.
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