Channel 5 lifts the lid on the extravagant world of royal banquets this Saturday with “Secrets of the Royal Traditions.” More than just meals, these opulent affairs are a feast for the senses, steeped in centuries of tradition. This episode examines the surprisingly intricate customs governing these grand events, revealing the history behind the pomp and circumstance.
From the precise placement of 4,000 pieces of cutlery and 750 glasses, to the carefully choreographed movements of over 160 guests and those who serve them, royal banquets are a spectacle of ritual and pageantry. The roots of this regal hospitality go back nearly 700 years, reflecting a rich tapestry of social customs and historical quirks.
But “Secrets of the Royal Traditions” doesn’t shy away from the less savory aspects of royal history. The program also examines the sometimes strained relationship between the monarch’s role as Head of the Church of England and the tradition of royal infidelity. The programme contrasts the monarch’s position as a moral figurehead with the historical prevalence of extramarital affairs, and the unusual tradition of rewarding royal mistresses.
The episode also focuses on the contrasting playboy image cultivated by royals like the Prince Regent and Edward VII. It also takes a quick peek at modern royal life, including the new traditions William and Kate are making by home-schooling their children and encouraging their culinary skills in the royal kitchen. It airs on Channel 5 on Saturday, May 17 at 6:30 PM.
