King Charles Receives Keys to Edinburgh Beginning Holyrood Week

King Charles III commenced his annual summer visit to Scotland with the traditional Ceremony of the Keys at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, where he was presented with the keys to the city by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge. The ceremony, symbolizing Edinburgh's welcome to its monarch, included a royal salute and an inspection of a Guard of Honour from the Royal Company of Archers, the King's ceremonial bodyguard in Scotland since 1822. Music was provided by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland, while a 21-gun salute was fired from Edinburgh Castle. Around 250 guests, recognized for their community work, attended the formal event held in the palace gardens. This ceremony marks the beginning of Holyrood Week, during which the King will engage in various cultural and official events throughout Scotland, using Holyroodhouse as his base. The royal family shared emotional moments from the event on social media, highlighting the historic and cultural significance of the palace and the tradition.