Exhibition of Bohemian Crown Jewels

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. Prague is preparing a big event. President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel is to exhibit the Bohemian Crown Jewels 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.

Annual holiday

Until now, the Bohemian crown jewels have generally been exhibited in Prague only on special occasions. Now, starting in 2024, they will be exhibited regularly to mark St. Wenceslas Day, which falls on 28 September.

The exhibition will be held in gothic Vladislav Hall of the Old Royal Palace.