Online exhibition explores Václav Havel’s role as host to world leaders

The Presidential Office Archives has launched a new online exhibition featuring previously unseen documents and photographs from Václav Havel’s presidency. It focuses on his role as host to foreign leaders and includes correspondence with Queen Elizabeth II and records of meetings with the Dalai Lama and Pope John Paul II.

The exhibition is part of Havel Alive!, a festival marking what would have been the former Czech president’s 90th birthday. It also recalls the visit of US President Bill Clinton, whom Havel presented with a saxophone.

Other items include handwritten letters, media coverage, seating plans and state banquet menus, offering a glimpse into the diplomatic side of Havel’s presidency.