Camilla made Lady of the British Order of the Garter

Camilla, wife of the crown prince to the British crown Charles, was appointed Friday December 31 by Elizabeth II Lady of the Order of the Garter, the most prestigious of the British knighthood, acknowledging the growing place within the monarchy of this personality long unloved.

"

" Buckingham Palace said in a statement.

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This distinction is granted by the Queen by personal decision, without the advice of the Prime Minister.

In this order, she accedes to the same rank as the children of the queen.

It is a great honor for Camilla, 74, who has come to establish herself as a key figure in the British monarchy, having long been unloved for having been Prince Charles' mistress during his marriage to the very popular Diana.

In the hearts of the British

The Duchess of Cornwall has gained visibility and popularity thanks to her multiple engagements, as Queen Elizabeth II, 95, has gradually stepped down to save her health.

She has carved out a place for herself in the hearts of the British by getting involved in subjects that are dear to her, such as reading.

She also opened up during confinement about her love for the hit TV show "

", where celebrities dance.

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Since her marriage to Prince Charles in 2005 in a discreet civil ceremony - in the absence of the sovereign - Camilla's status has been the source of endless discussions as to whether she will become queen consort or princess consort when her husband will ascend the throne. During their union already, the Duchess had chosen not to take the title of Princess of Wales, previously worn by Diana, so as not to offend the sensitivity of the public.

The Order of the Garter was founded by King Edward III in 1348, during the Hundred Years War and its motto, in French, is "

" ("

" here takes only one n in accordance with a long tradition).

Labor Tony Blair, 68, who served as Prime Minister from 1997 to 2007, was made a Companion Knight of the Order of the Garter, bringing to 21 the number of Companions limited to a maximum of 24, chosen for their merits.