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The temples, monuments, and palaces built or used by a ruler are another indication of a monarch’s power and authority. In Britain, the official residences of the queen include Buckingham Palace, in London (pictured); Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, England; and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Sovereign’s Orb, and a jewel-ornamented golden rod, called the Scepter with the Cross, in her right. The queen also wears the Imperial State Crown on occa- sions such as the State Opening of Parliament. This annual rit- ual, which follows a centuries-old tradition, requires the monarch to deliver before Parliament a speech on the country’s plans and future laws. The speech is written by the prime min- ister. Another symbol of the monarchy is the royal coat of arms— the shield representing the British monarchy. Because the duty of a ruler is to guarantee that justice is done, the royal coat of arms appears in courtrooms throughout the United Kingdom. Details of the coat of arms also appear on coins that feature the portrait of the queen. An important symbol of the monar-

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Monarchy: Sovereignty of a King or Queen