Elizabeth II and Prince Philip were married for 73 years, making them one of the most enduring royal partnerships in modern history. Their wedding in 1947 marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment that lasted until Philip's death in 2021.
Their marriage spanned post-war reconstruction, decades of royal duty, and sweeping cultural change, reflecting stability and adaptation as the monarchy evolved. Below is a detailed overview of key milestones, roles, and public perceptions of their union.
Marriage Date and Anniversary Details
Key Wedding Information
The couple married on 20 November 1947 at Westminster Abbey, uniting Elizabeth, then Princess Elizabeth, with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding Day | 20 November 1947 | Civil and religious ceremony attended by 2,000 guests |
| First Anniversary | 20 November 1948 | Marked the start of seven decades of shared public service |
| Diamond Wedding | 20 November 2007 | 60th anniversary celebrated quietly at Windsor |
| Platinum Wedding | 20 November 2017 | 70th anniversary marked by subdued royal engagements |
| Final Anniversary | 2021 | Philip died in April; their final anniversary was not publicly commemorated |
Royal Duties and Public Life Together
Partnership in Service
As queen and consort, Elizabeth and Philip represented continuity and modernisation, balancing traditional protocol with a more approachable public image.
Philip supported Elizabeth through constant travel, state visits, and televised moments, often injecting dry humour while maintaining disciplined duty.
Family Life and Personal Moments
Behind the Palace Walls
Their family life centred on raising four children amid intense media scrutiny, with shared holidays at Balmoral and Sandringham providing rare private respites.
Philip played an active role in children's upbringing, emphasising education, naval service, and resilience, shaping a distinct royal household culture.
Public Perception and Media Evolution
Criticism to Admiration
Early coverage questioned Philip's suitability and foreign birth, yet over time he became admired for his candidness, conservation work, and steadfast support of the monarchy.
Television documentaries, royal weddings, and milestone photographs gradually transformed public sentiment into widespread respect for their enduring partnership.
Key Takeaways for Understanding Their Marriage
- 73-year partnership from 1947 to 2021, one of the longest royal marriages
- Supported Elizabeth through constitutional changes and evolving media landscapes
- Combined public duty with private family life, raising four children
- Overcame early criticism to become a respected symbol of stability
- Marked milestones with widely followed celebrations and modern adaptations
FAQ
Reader questions
How old was Elizabeth when she married Philip?
Elizabeth was 21 years old at the time of her wedding to Philip in 1947.
Did Philip have to give up his naval career after marriage?
He reduced active sea duty but remained connected to the Royal Navy through roles and ceremonial duties.
How did their marriage survive long periods of separation?
Regular correspondence, shared schedules during major events, and mutual understanding of public responsibilities sustained their bond.
What was the most celebrated anniversary of their marriage?
Their Diamond Wedding in 2007, marking 60 years together, drew global attention and affectionate tributes.