In the aftermath of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, the world was captivated by the centuries-old traditions that surrounded her mourning. One of the most unusual, yet deeply symbolic, rituals came from an unexpected corner of Buckingham Palace: the royal beehives. Yes, even the bees were officially informed of the Queen’s death.
This peculiar practice stems from an ancient superstition known as “Telling the Bees.” Dating back to medieval Europe, the belief held that bees were mystical creatures, closely linked to the family that owned them.
If a significant life event occurred—such as a death, marriage, or birth—the bees needed to be told. Failing to do so was thought to anger the bees, potentially causing them to stop producing honey, leave their hive, or even die.
In the royal version of this tradition, the official beekeeper visits the hives located at Buckingham Palace and Clarence House to perform the ceremony. Upon the Queen’s death, John Chapple, the royal beekeeper, was tasked with this unusual duty.
He reportedly approached the hives, softly tapped on each one, and informed the bees that their mistress had passed away. He then informed them that their new master, King Charles III, would now be taking care of them.
As part of the ritual, black mourning ribbons were tied to the hives, symbolizing respect for the departed monarch. Though it may sound quaint—or even superstitious—this tradition reflects the deep reverence for nature and continuity that has long been embedded in royal customs.
But why bees? Beyond their association with productivity and community, bees have often been regarded as harbingers of change. In ancient folklore, they were believed to carry messages between the living and the spirit world. The act of telling the bees ensures they remain loyal and continue their work as part of the family’s estate.
Interestingly, this practice isn’t limited to the British royal family. Variations of “Telling the Bees” exist in other cultures, including parts of Germany, Ireland, and the United States. In some traditions, people would even share poetry or songs with the bees to deliver the message.
While many view this ritual as a charming relic of the past, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the monarchy’s blend of history, tradition, and symbolism. For the royal family, even the smallest details—like the buzzing of bees—carry a weight of continuity, binding the present to the past in ways that often escape modern logic.
So, the next time you see a bee at Buckingham Palace, remember that it’s not just a worker in a hive—it’s part of a centuries-old royal legacy, quietly carrying on its duties in honor of its new king.
