Four protesters doused the Imperial State Crown with custard and crumble at the Tower of London in a bold political protest. Jewels unharmed.
Chaos at the Tower: Crown Jewels Covered in Custard
Visitors to the Tower of London got a shocking surprise on Saturday when four protesters targeted the display of the Imperial State Crown with a mess of yellow custard and apple crumble.
The stunt, carried out by a group called Take Back Power, temporarily closed the iconic exhibit and left tourists wide-eyed. One of Britain’s most treasured symbols, worn by King Charles III at his coronation and during the 2024 State Opening of Parliament, was left unharmed but certainly messy.
A Crown Worth Millions, Under Dessert Attack
The Imperial State Crown isn’t just any crown. It boasts 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, four rubies, and 269 pearls. Originally crafted for King George VI in 1937, it has become a must-see attraction at the Tower.
Police confirmed the protesters were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage. Historic Royal Palaces assured the public that the crown itself sustained no harm.
“Democracy Has Crumbled”: Protesters’ Bold Message
Two members of Take Back Power smeared the dessert on the display, while two others faced arrest. The group, known for advocating a permanent citizens’ assembly and taxing extreme wealth, unfurled a sign reading, “Democracy has crumbled. Tax the rich.”
This act is the latest in a series of politically motivated demonstrations targeting famous artworks and treasures. Last year, protesters threw tomato soup at Van Gogh’s Sunflowers at the National Gallery.
Visitors Shocked as Custard Flies
Video footage shows the protesters striking the display as onlookers stepped back in disbelief. Tower staff quickly intervened and called for help, preventing any damage to the priceless gems.
The Tower of London, a site steeped in history and once home to royal prisoners like Anne Boleyn and Thomas More, became the stage for a modern protest that blended political urgency with a sticky, dessert-covered spectacle.
