On September 19, the body of Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest in the Royal Vault, reuniting with Prince Philip. Following this, the coffins of both will be transferred for burial next to their loved ones.
The final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II in the King George VI Memorial Chapel, but prior to that, she will be temporarily placed in the Royal Vault of St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.
St. George VI Memorial Chapel also serves as the final resting place for the late Queen’s parents, along with the ashes of her sister, Princess Margaret. The placement of Prince Philip’s coffin in the vault, awaiting reunion with the Queen’s body, was planned in advance.
The Royal Vault is built deep beneath St. George VI Chapel, at a depth of approximately 5 meters. This vault is lined with stone, measuring approximately 8.5 m x 21.3 m.
The vault has enough space to accommodate 44 coffins. 32 coffins are placed on shelves against the walls, while the remaining 12 will be positioned in the center.
The entrance features an iron gate that is usually closed. During the ceremony in the main hall, a floor panel inside the chapel, where the coffin is placed, will be raised. After the ceremony, the coffin will be lowered through a hydraulic lift.
The coffin is then moved through a 15-meter long underground corridor before being placed into the vault. King George III commissioned the Royal Vault in 1804, and the construction was completed six years later.
For decades, the Royal Vault has served as a temporary resting place for royal family members before a final burial location is chosen. King George III was the first monarch to be buried in the vault in 1820.
The Royal Vault is not open to visitors, although guests can visit St. George’s Chapel or attend ceremonies held there.
This has led many to wonder about the secrets inside the vault, such as the environment and atmosphere within.
Some sources suggest that the vault may emit certain odors, although only the custodians of the vault would know the specifics.
Nevertheless, the royal family has measures in place to preserve remains and slow decay. Keeping the room odor-free maintains dignity during the reception or relocation of the coffins, ensuring convenience for those tasked with maintaining the vault.
Among the most recent royals to temporarily reside in the Royal Vault was Prince Philip’s mother, Princess Alice. She entered the vault after her death in December 1969. However, in August 1988, her remains were removed from the vault for burial at the Mary Magdalene Church in Jerusalem, according to her wishes.
