Prague - A traditional ceremony took place today in St.Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle: seven holders of the keys to the Crown Chamber solemnly picked up the St.Wenceslas Crown, the scepter and the royal apple. These jewels, of incalculable value and one of the most important symbols of Czech statehood, were transferred to the nearby Vladislav Hall, where they will be open to the public free of charge until 29 September.
The very act of opening the Crown Chamber is accompanied by a strong symbolism - it is a moment that takes place only on special occasions. This year, the main theme of the exhibition is "Treasure in the Darkness", recalling the dramatic fate of the coronation insignia during the Second World War.
The exhibition, open daily from 18 to 29 September between 9:00 and 17:00, is divided into two phases this year. The first two days are reserved for registered school groups, who have the opportunity to view the jewels in a quieter environment. From Thursday onwards, all visitors and tourists can enter the Vladislav Hall. Reservations are not possible in advance, so those interested must take into account the queues that usually form at Hradčany Square. The route then leads through the South Gardens and the Bull's Staircase to the Old Royal Palace.
This year, the curatorial team has prepared a unique combination of the jewels themselves and accompanying materials. Visitors will be introduced to archival documents, period photographs and lesser-known stories that reveal how the jewels were treated during the occupation and how they were preserved during the dark years of wartime history. The exhibition also includes materials from the collections of the Presidential Archive and the CTK photo archive.
The author of the architectural design is the world-famous architect Eva Jiřičná. Her set design emphasises the intimate atmosphere of encounters with artefacts and their narrative dimension. The aim is not only to show the insignia themselves, but above all to bring their fate closer to the wider context of the 20th century.
A great deal of public interest is expected - last year nearly 47,000 people viewed the jewels during a special exhibition. The organisers therefore advise visitors to be patient and considerate during the tours. The free exhibition offers a unique opportunity to take a look not only at the jewels of the Czech kings themselves, but also at the story that is firmly linked to the modern history of the country.
gnews.cz - GH
English 
Czech 
Spanish 
French 
Italian 
Russian 
Chinese 
German