Liber Regalis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Liber Regalis |
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| Westminster Abbey Library, MS 38 | |
Anne of Bohemia in the Liber Regalis
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| Type | Codex |
| Date | 14th century (1308 or 1382) |
| Language(s) | Latin |
| Material | Vellum |
| Size | 34 folios |
| Contents | Coronation and funeral services |
The Liber Regalis is a very old and special book from England. Its name means "Royal Book" in Latin. It is an illuminated manuscript, which means it was hand-written and beautifully decorated with pictures and fancy letters.
This important book was probably put together in 1382. It was made to guide the coronation ceremony for England's new queen, Anne of Bohemia. Some people think it might have been made earlier, in 1308, for the coronation of Edward II.
The Liber Regalis contains the exact steps, or "ordo," for several important royal events. It shows how to crown a king, how to crown a king and queen together, and how to crown a queen alone. It also includes details for a king's funeral. Each of these sections starts with a full-page picture showing the event.
A Royal Rulebook
The Liber Regalis was like a rulebook for royal ceremonies. It provided the order of service for all coronations that happened after it was made. This included coronations up to, and even including, the one for Elizabeth I.
How the Book Changed Over Time
When James I became king, the instructions in the Liber Regalis were translated from Latin into English. This made it easier for everyone to understand. Even with some small changes over the years, the Liber Regalis stayed the main guide for all later coronation ceremonies.
Where is it Now?
Today, the Liber Regalis is kept safe at Westminster Abbey in London. It is a valuable part of their collection, known as MS 38.
