Coronation of Nicholas II of Russia

[LouisFerdinand]

Tsar Nicholas II of Russia had his coronation on May 14, 1896.

[LouisFerdinand]

During the length of the ceremony, Tsarina Alexandra later wrote to one of her sisters that she never felt tired, so strong was her own emotions.
To her, the ceremony seemed a kind of mystic marriage between herself and Russia.
At the coronation, she left behind the girl who grew up in Darmstadt and England.

[Baibars06]

Handsome tsar

[LouisFerdinand]

Coronation day began early with the traditional procession through the streets of Moscow.
Nicholas II, atop his white steed, rode in first, accompanied by many cavalry squadrons.
Next came the carriage bearing his mother. The crowd cheered loudly as the Tsar and his mother passed by. They did not cheer when Empress Alexandra's coach passed by.

[LouisFerdinand]

Nicholas II and Alexandra at their coronation
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/102949541455181374

1896 Russia Coronation Booklet
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/160651911681521037

[LouisFerdinand]

Moscow Illuminations for the Coronation

[LouisFerdinand]

By tradition, the uncrowned Tsar did not enter the city of Moscow until the day before his coronation.