Regalia - what is it?

Regalia - a symbol of royalty, the royal, imperial or royal authority, which has long been used by the holders of state power.For each country, these signs are the same, they are the scepter, crown and orb.

How did regalia

that this phenomenon has its origins in antiquity, it can be stated unequivocally.So, was the ancestor of crown laurel wreath, which was assigned to head the winning in competitions.Later, he became a symbol of honor, which was prepared by commander or officer who had distinguished themselves in the service.From this tradition, and there was a crown, which has gained popularity in Europe in the early Middle Ages.

Cap of Monomakh

Russian imperial regalia were particularly luxurious.Among them is a very remarkable attribute - the ancient medieval crown, which, according to some historians, the Byzantine emperor Constantine sent as a gift to the Kievan prince Vladimir Monomakh.There is a theory according to which, together with the Crown Prince also received the scepter.

How did the scepter

This attribute of state power also appeared in antiquity.Sceptre, according to legend, used the inhabitants of Olympus Zeus and Hera, who decided to imitate some ancient rulers and officials, considering it an indispensable symbol of dignity.It is interesting, but the most important person in the country - the emperors - scepters not used.However, in the Middle Ages it was used all over Europe, including Russia, where, during the wedding of kings and regalia used.What is happening Emen so the story suggests a certain Gorseya, who witnessed the coronation of Fyodor Ivanovich.

other regalia

Not without less notable symbols of power.There are also not very popular royal regalia, including heirlooms, sabers, swords and various ornaments.They were made of gold, precious stones, including emeralds, rubies and sapphires.Some of the jewelry is quite known for its impressive size and incredible beauty.The British royal crown, for example, has a very large ruby, which is nicknamed "The Black Prince".

When used regalia

These state symbols of power rulers and important officials wore during various ceremonies.Monarchs, for example, used their insignia during a meeting of foreign nobles or important outputs.Nevertheless, there were special jewels that are used only in specific cases, for example, the Great Imperial Crown, which he put on except during the coronation of the king's royalty, queen or king.

the British monarchs there is even a special diamond tiara that Queen is obliged to wear during visits to foreign countries and special outputs, even noted in diplomatic protocol.It was her Elizabeth II wore during his official visit to Russia.
most significant symbols of power were created more than a century ago, it could be said about almost all notable regalia.What does it say who wants to see them personally?

fact that, given the value and antiquity of some of the symbols of power, today they are no longer used and are exhibited in museums.For example, some important jewels are exhibited in the National Museum of France - the Louvre.In Copenhagen at the castle Rosenburg can see the treasures of Danish kings.Even in Russia, you can see some of the royal regalia, which are stored in the armory, to be precise - in the Diamond Fund, which can visit anyone.

Symbols of power since ancient times have been called to demonstrate the power of the state and the monarch himself, and still remain a subject of discussion for many historians, because so many mysteries remain hidden for centuries.Regalia - it is a symbol of power, our contemporaries, no doubt, and it will remain unchanged for a long time.