Death of Elizabeth II: when will the Queen's funeral take place?

With the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday at the age of 96, many questions remain, starting with the date of the funeral of the monarch.

While it is already known that, in accordance with tradition, his coffin will be displayed in Westminster Hall four days before the funeral, the exact day has not yet been confirmed by Buckingham Palace.

A Holy Day in the Church of England

Traditionally, the funeral of a monarch takes place ten days after his death, or September 18 for the queen.

But the calendar could get in the way of this habit.

This year, September 18 falls on a Sunday, a holy day in the Church of England, of which Elizabeth II was supreme governor.

Read alsoDeath of Elizabeth II: proclamation of Charles, national mourning, funeral … the calendar for the next few days

This should probably lead Buckingham Palace to postpone until Monday, September 19, the tribute ceremony for Elizabeth II.

However, nothing formally prohibits the royal family and the Church of England from maintaining the funeral on Sunday, if they wish.

An extraordinary ceremony

When the date of the funeral of Elizabeth II is confirmed, the British government should proclaim this public holiday for the whole kingdom.

This means in particular that schools will be closed, notes the BBC.

The ceremony will take place at Westminster Abbey, where the Queen was married in 1947 and was crowned in 1953.

Many dignitaries from around the world are expected at the event.

Dean of Westminster David Hoyle and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby will lead the church service.

The Queen's coffin will be lowered into St. George's Chapel, where she will rest alongside her husband, Prince Philip.