There’s been some controversy across Canada about whether this is a long weekend or not. The federal government has declared Monday a national holiday in honour of the Queen’s funeral. But because most workplaces fall under provincial jurisdiction, Ottawa’s declaration has resulted in a pastiche of provincial holidays to mark the passing of a woman who has been our head of state for the past 70 years.

Regardless of how you intend to mark the day, Monday will certainly be historic as world leaders gather for the royal funeral. It has been remarkable to watch the TV coverage of the human river of mourners who are waiting as long as 24 hours to get a chance pass by the Queen’s coffin in person.

The global network of The Conversation has come together to look at many different aspects of the monarchy during this time of royal transition. During this weekend – whether it’s a long one or a regular one – I invite you to read some these interesting and unique takes on a story that may happen only once in someone's lifttime.

The Conversation Weekly podcast is also back after a short hiatus. In this week’s episode, we explore how “modern” styles of architecture using concrete and glass have often usurped local building techniques better suited to parts of the world with hotter climates.

We’ll be back in your Inbox on Monday – so I guess that means it’s not a holiday for your faithful servants at The Conversation Canada!