King Charles III led members of the Royal Family in the traditional Order of the Thistle service at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh, a key event during Scotland's Royal Week. The King, 77, wore ornate robes and a plumed hat for the ceremony, where new Knights and Ladies are installed into Scotland's highest order of chivalry.
Queen Camilla, 78, also attended the service. Princes William, 44, and Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, 62, were present and seen walking together during the procession. The ceremony began at the Signet Library and proceeded to the cathedral, followed by a reception and lunch at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
The Order of the Thistle recognizes 16 knights, as well as Scottish individuals who have made significant contributions to public life or national life. The King's participation in Royal Week began with the Ceremony of the Keys at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, his official residence in Edinburgh.
During the ceremony on Saturday, Charles officially opened the Scottish Parliament. He was presented with the keys to the city of Edinburgh, a tradition marking the start of his week-long stay in Scotland. A guard of honor was provided by the Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland, and the Royal Company of Archers, the King's bodyguard in Scotland.
Charles remarked on the 'dangerously changing' climate and the 'seriously depleted' biodiversity during his address at the Scottish Parliament. His attire for the ceremony at the Palace of Holyroodhouse included a grey suit with a blue cornflower in his lapel, a symbol often worn by the King to draw attention to environmental concerns. The cornflower, now endangered, has been a recurring feature in his attire for many years, including a portrait in 2013.