Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin arrives at Scotland's St. Giles Cathedral

LONDON

The coffin of Queen Elizbeth II arrived at St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, on Monday ahead of a service of thanksgiving.

The queen’s coffin made its way down Edinburgh's famed Royal Mile from the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch’s official residence in Scotland.

Thousands of people lined the streets to pay their respects.

King Charles III and his three siblings walked behind the hearse down the Royal Mile. Gun salutes from Edinburgh Castle marked the beginning of the procession.

During the service, the Right Rev. Iain Greenshields said: “Here in Scotland we acknowledge with gratitude her deep links with our land and its people. Her love of the Balmoral estate is well known, and being there latterly brought her great comfort.”

The queen died last Thursday, age 96, while at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

“There she was valued as a neighbor and friend, and there she drew strength and refreshment during the summer months," he continued.

At the end of the service, the national anthem – in a form not performed during Elizabeth’s 70-year reign – “God Save The King” was sung.

With the service complete, members of the public are now allowed to enter the cathedral to pay their respects.

Tomorrow, the queen’s coffin will be flown to London.

Earlier in the day, Charles was given the ceremonial keys to the city of Edinburgh.

Following tradition, he handed them back, entrusting their safekeeping to the city's elected officials.

Later in the evening, the king and other members of the royal family will hold a vigil at the cathedral in honor of their mother. Anadolu Agency website contains only a portion of the news stories offered to subscribers in the AA News Broadcasting System (HAS), and in summarized form. Please contact us for subscription options.