On Monday, September 15, 2025, the Crown Jewels of the Kingdom of Bohemia were ceremonially transferred from the Chapel of St. Wenceslas in St. Vitus Cathedral to the Vladislav Hall of Prague Castle. The solemn occasion was attended by President Petr Pavel, Archbishop of Prague Jan Graubner, Speaker of the Senate Miloš Vystrčil, and the Mayor of Prague Bohuslav Svoboda. The transfer marked the beginning of a renewed tradition: that the Bohemian Crown Jewels will be displayed annually to the public around St. Wenceslas Day.

The Vladislav Hall, one of the most historic spaces of the Old Royal Palace, was the venue of medieval coronations, banquets, and royal ceremonies. By presenting the jewels there, the Czech Republic links its living democratic traditions with the legacy of the medieval Bohemian kingdom.

The History of the Bohemian Crown Jewels

The Bohemian Crown Jewels, also known as the Coronation Insignia of the Kingdom of Bohemia, are among the most important symbols of Czech statehood and history. They consist of the Crown of Saint Wenceslas, the royal scepter, the royal orb, and associated items such as the coronation vestments.

The Crown of Saint Wenceslas was created in 1347 for the coronation of Charles IV, who later became Holy Roman Emperor. It was dedicated to Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, and richly decorated with precious stones and pearls. The royal scepter and orb, as they exist today, were made later in the 16th century under Ferdinand I, reflecting Renaissance artistry.

Throughout history, the jewels were primarily kept in St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. However, due to wars and political turmoil, they were occasionally moved to other secure locations, including Karlštejn Castle and even Vienna. Today, they are stored in a special chamber of the cathedral, protected by a set of seven keys held by the highest state and church dignitaries.

Exhibitions and Public Access

Unlike some crown jewels that are on permanent display, the Bohemian Crown Jewels are only exhibited on exceptional occasions. Traditionally, this happened only once every five to ten years, often to mark jubilees or national anniversaries. Most recently, President Petr Pavel announced that the jewels will be displayed annually in the Vladislav Hall, particularly around September 28, the feast day of Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech nation.

The jewels are guarded by tradition and legend. One famous tale warns that any usurper who places the crown upon his head will die within a year. Such legends underscore the reverence and symbolic power attached to the jewels.

Symbolism Today

The ceremonial transfer of the Crown Jewels to the Vladislav Hall in 2025 symbolizes not only continuity with the past but also transparency and openness in the present. Making them accessible to the public strengthens the connection between Czech citizens and their long and complex history. In the presence of the highest representatives of state, church, and city, the jewels once again became a visible link between the medieval Kingdom of Bohemia and the modern Czech Republic.