The Bohemian royal crown made of pure gold, precious stones and pearls, the royal sceptre set with sapphires and the golden orb with a cross inlaid with precious stones. The Bohemian Crown Jewels will be displayed at Prague Castle.
A crown with magical powers
The Crown of Saint Wenceslas is one of the most beautiful crowns in Europe and was made for the coronation of the Roman Emperor and the greatest of the kings of Bohemia, Charles IV, in 1346. The jewels symbolize Czech statehood and national identity, which is why they always arouse great interest when they go on display.According to tradition, they are preserved in St. Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle, secured by seven locks. Each key is entrusted to a different prominent person. According to legend, the Crown of Saint Wenceslas has magical powers. Supposedly, anyone who places the crown on his head without the right to do so will soon die.
It is still said that the impetus for the death of acting Reich Protector Reinhard Heydrich was his incognito visit to the St. Wenceslas Chapel in 1941, where he is said to have put on the crown himself. He died in 1942 as a result of an assassination attempt.
© Office of the President of the Republic, photo Jan William Drnek
Treasure in the Darkness
The exhibition reveals the dramatic WWII story of how the Czech crown jewels were secretly transported to Slovakia and later hidden in the castle’s underground chambers. The exhibition features original documents, photographs, and the crate used to protect these priceless symbols of Czech heritage.Admission is free, making this a unique opportunity to explore one of the most powerful symbols of Czech history and culture.
The exhibition will be held in gothic Vladislav Hall of the Old Royal Palace.
Address
Prague Castle
Vladislav Hall
119 08 Prague 1
Vladislav Hall
119 08 Prague 1
