They live their life in the spotlight and are often known to embrace the British mantra of the “stiff upper lip” when it comes masking their emotions.
But for the past week since Prince Philip’s passing, the British Royals have been like any other family rocked by the heartbreaking loss of a loved one, and their raw emotions have been on full display.
From Prince Charles’ emotional tribute to his “dear papa” to Sophie of Wessex’s tearful description of Prince Philip’s final moments before he passed, it’s been humbling and humanising to see the royals band together to mourn Prince Philip.
As they gathered to farewell Prince Philip at a socially distanced funeral service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on Saturday April 17, the family were understandably moved by the service.
At one point, Sophie of Wessex could be seen wiping tears away from her eyes.
While a tearful Prince Charles was also overcome with emotion during the funeral procession.
But perhaps the most poignant image of the day was that of Queen Elizabeth II sitting by herself in the pews. Due to the current COVID guidelines, the 94-year-old had to farewell her husband with no one by her side. The stirring picture of the monarch alone in her grief has since gone viral around the world.
Keep scrolling as we take a look at the most raw and heartfelt moments from Prince Philip’s funeral
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Sophie has reportedly been a pillar of strength and support for Her Majesty since Prince Philip’s passing.
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Princess Eugenie, who welcomed son August with husband Jack Brooksbank in February, could be seen holding onto a tissue.
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Prince Edward takes a moment to reflect.
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The Queen arrives by herself to farewell her husband of 73 years.
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Due to the current COVID-19 guidelines, The Queen was unable to sit directly next to anyone in the pews. Her son Prince Andrew was close by.
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The 94-year-old paid tribute to her late husband by wearing one of her favourite diamond brooches, which is from her grandmother Queen Mary’s collection and a beloved piece she often wore during joint appearances with Prince Philip during the start of her reign.
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Alone in her grief: Throughout her reign, The Queen was always supported by Prince Philip. But on Saturday, the ruler said goodbye to her husband by herself. In the seat next to her was her trademark black handbag.
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The 94-year-old penned a final goodbye letter to her husband and placed it on his coffin, telling him “I love you” and signing off with Philip’s nickname for her – “Your Loving Lilibet”.
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An emotional Duchess Catherine bows her head in respect to her grandfather in-law.
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Prince William and Duchess Catherine share a quiet moment of prayer.
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Leading the funeral procession, a tearful Prince Charles’ raw emotion was easy to see.
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A melancholy Prince William, Prince Harry and Peter Phillips walked together during the funeral procession.
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Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi reflect on Prince Philip’s extraordinary life.
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Duchess Camilla looked downcast as she arrived for the funeral.
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A usually stoic Princess Anne appeared rather crestfallen.
