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The Bohemian Crown Jewels are a collection of priceless artifacts with a long and illustrious history housed in a castle in the middle of Europe. These glittering gems have a charisma that historians and jewelry lovers can’t get enough of, thanks to their rich history of mystery and folklore.
The Czech Crown Jewels are housed in Prague Castle, where they are securely preserved and can only be exhibited in that location. In rare cases, though, this does happen. The Jewels are now showcased approximately every five years. The exclusive authority to determine the placement of the Crown Jewels rests with the President of Czech.
If you ever find yourself in Prague, don’t miss the opportunity to see the Bohemian Crown Jewels. Dive headfirst into the enthralling mystique of these mythical artifacts and imagine a world where knights, dragons, and kings roam freely.
What Are the Bohemian Crown Jewels?
The Bohemian Crown Jewels include the Crown of Saint Wenceslas, Royal Orb, Royal Sceptre, and Coronation Cloak. These artifacts are crucial to Bohemia’s rich history because they have been used at kings’ and queens’ coronations since the 14th century.
Bohemian crown jewels, which are also known as Czech crown jewels, consist of the following items: the royal orb and scepter, the coronation robes of the Kings of Bohemia, the gold reliquary cross, St. Wenceslas’ sword, and the Crown of St. Wenceslas.
St. Wenceslas Crown
The Crown of Saint Wenceslas is unquestionably the most famous piece in the collection. This stunning piece is made of solid gold and set with precious gems including sapphires, rubies, and pearls. The crown honors Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, and represents the country’s Christian heritage.
The Bohemian Crown Jewels coin
The Bohemian Crown Jewels coin is a modernized tribute to this ancient treasure, recognizing its artistic and cultural value. The coin, minted with elaborate designs that mirror the jewels’ splendor, is both a collectible and a reminder of the Czech Republic’s rich history. Its creation highlights the enduring history of the Crown Jewels and their significance in connecting the distant past and present.
Royal Scepter and Orb:
The royal scepter is a representation of the king’s power and dominion; it is golden and studded with valuable stones. As a symbol of oneness between spiritual and temporal power, the Royal Orb—a golden sphere crowned with a cross—represents the king’s divine right to govern over earthly domains. These parts, when worn together with the crown, highlight the royal regalia’s majesty.
The History and Significance of the Czech Crown Jewels
The Prague Crown Jewels, sometimes known as the Bohemian Crown Jewels, represent the Czech Republic’s history, culture, and identity. The Crown of Saint Wenceslas, Royal Scepter, Royal Orb, and other regalia showcase Czech art and legacy in this amazing collection.
Charles IV commissioned the jewels in 1347 to boost the Bohemian monarchy. The centerpiece, the Gothic Crown of Saint Wenceslas, named after the Czech patron saint, is made of gold and set with beautiful stones. The collection gained significance with the inclusion of the Royal Scepter and Orb.
The gems were crucial to Czech kings’ coronations at St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. These ceremonies were political and spiritual, with jewels signifying the monarch’s divine authority and duty to rule justly. Regalia strengthened monarchy, church, and people unity.
The gems have long symbolized Czech sovereignty and perseverance, especially during foreign rule and national upheaval. Seven locks with keys held by high-ranking officials secure them in St. Vitus Cathedral, confirming their sacred significance.
How Much Are the Bohemian Crown Jewels Worth?
No amount of money could ever do justice to the crown of Bohemian. The jewels are not only an invaluable historical artifact, but also a unique representation of Czech nationhood.
Looking at the Bohemian Crown Jewels’ value in a material sense, they are made of gold, valuable stones, and top-notch pearls. Their inherent worth, according to experts, might reach into the millions of dollars due to the materials’ exceptional quality and rarity. Take the Crown of Saint Wenceslas as an example. Its material worth is enhanced by the countless gemstones that adorn it, including 19 sapphires, 30 emeralds, 20 pearls, and many more.
The Prague Crown Jewels are considered priceless because of their immense cultural, symbolic, and historical importance, even though their material composition indicates a high monetary value. They are priceless artifacts that will always be associated with the Czech Republic and its history.
How to See the Prague Crown Jewels
Prague Castle’s St. Vitus Cathedral has a separate chamber where the Bohemian Crown Jewels are safely kept. There are seven locks on this chamber’s door, and the keys are in the possession of seven high-ranking Czech authorities, including the prime minister, the president, and the archbishop of Prague. The jewels’ spiritual and national significance is made apparent by their extensive security.
The only time the public gets to see the gems is on very special occasions, such as major national anniversaries or historical landmarks. Many people look forward to these events all year round and go in large numbers.
Prague Castle express ticket with an optional audio guide
To save time and avoid waiting in the queue, purchase your tickets to Prague Castle in advance. Before you set out on your exploration of the castle complex, get a brief (15–20 minute) orientation.
Highlights
- Skip the ticket line and go straight to Prague Castle.
- Explore Saint Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and other notable sites
- Get a quick, English-language introduction to the castle in about fifteen to twenty minutes!
- No queues while shopping
- Take in the breathtaking architecture.
What is included
- Skip-the-line admission ticket for the Prague Castle site.
- 15-minute orientation of the Castle complex.
- Orientation Map
- Optional audio guide
