Czech crown jewels go on display in Prague, highlighting their fate in World War II
The Czech crown jewels, including the St. Wenceslas Crown, sceptre, orb, and robes used in the coronation of Czech kings, are on display at Prague Castle. This year’s exhibition designed by the famous London-based architect Eva Jiřičná, highlights their fate during WWII.
On Monday, all seven key holders, representatives of the state, the Catholic Church, and the city of Prague, opened the Crown Chamber in St. Vitus Cathedral. Among them were President Petr Pavel and Archbishop Jan Graubner, who led a prayer in front of the jewels.
After being removed from the chamber, the priceless symbols of Czech statehood were carried by the Castle Guard to Vladislav Hall in a red-upholstered case, accompanied by the sound of ringing bells.
This year’s exhibition highlights the fate of the royal insignia during the Second World War, when they were secretly moved and hidden. It is titled Czech Coronation Jewels: A Treasure in the Darkness.
The exhibition was designed by the studio of Eva Jiřičná, one of the most renowned Czech architects.
“We wanted to create something that combines both aspects: the joy of seeing the crown shining again as a reminder of Czech history, and the path it has taken, with its hardships, shown in a way that visitors can easily absorb,” she explains.
The path to the jewel showcase has five stops, each connected by a red carpet. Panels with black-and-white photographs are complemented by small display cases holding documents, letters, and historical objects.
“The graphics are somber, while the entrance is joyful. Visitors can see the coronation jewels, admire their beauty, and reflect on the importance of the Czech lands in history. At the same time, they trace the tragic past, shown through black-and-white panels with red lettering representing blood or struggle,” she adds.
Jiřičná, who has never designed an exhibition for the coronation jewels before, says she accepted the offer without hesitation, partly because of her grandfather.
“I remember sitting on his lap as a child. He had been wounded in the First World War and told me fairy tales. He said that when we were under occupation, I was born on March 3, 1939, the knights of Blaník were watching over the Czech crown, keeping it hidden until it could return. Nobody could reach it, and once it came back into the light, the nation would be free. Since I was very young, I have carried in my heart the importance of these jewels for the Czech nation and history.”
The sixth and final stop of the exhibition is filled with vibrant colours. Eva Jiřičná hopes the sight of the crown, orb, and scepter will bring visitors joy and a renewed appreciation of Czech history.
Tuesday and Wednesday are reserved for school groups. From Thursday, September 19, until September 29, the jewels are open to the general public free of charge.
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