On June 2, 1953, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place following a ritual that has been used since 750 AD. Because Canterbury is the ancient religious center of Great Britain, the Archbishop of Canterbury (the head of the Church of England) has presided over the coronation ceremonies of rulers of England for many generations. Canterbury Coronation seeks to capture both the ancient solemnity and the spirit of celebration that is inherent in a coronation and its accompanying ceremonies.