Discover the Enchantment of Crown Jewels at Kunštát Chateau: Vivat Georgius Rex Bohemiae
The original Czech crown jewels are only showcased once a year, but their accurate replicas are being created more frequently. From June 7 to August 30 in 2025, visitors can see the Czech Crown Jewels – including the St. Wenceslas Crown, the Renaissance scepter and apple, along with the Gothic crown scepter and apple of Charles IV at Kunštát Castle. This display is part of the exhibition Vivat Georgius rex Bohemiae, which highlights King George of Poděbrady (1420-1471). The event marks the 20th anniversary of the castle’s management by the National Heritage Institute. The interiors of Kunštát Castle feature original furnishings that reflect the culture of its last aristocratic owners. The lack of modern renovations gives these spaces a rare and genuine atmosphere.
The exhibition is accessible every Thursday at 5 p.m., but visitors must book in advance by dialing 516 462 062 or sending an email to: [email protected]. The first special tour will commence on June 12, with the final one occurring on August 28, 2025.
St. Wenceslas Crown, Scepter, and Apple
The St. Wenceslas Crown was created by Charles IV between 1345 and 1346, specifically for his coronation as King of Bohemia, making it the fourth oldest crown in Europe. Over time, additional items were added to the collection. The crown, scepter, and apple are kept in the crown chamber of St. Vitus Cathedral, while the vestments are stored in a specially conditioned repository at the Prague Castle Collections. The Cross and the Sword can be seen in the permanent exhibition of the St. Vitus Treasure located in the second courtyard.
The centerpiece of the Czech crown jewels collection is undoubtedly the St. Wenceslas Crown. This magnificent piece consists of golden bands made from four sections, each topped with a large lily. It has a total weight of 2358 grams and the diameter of the bands ranges from 19 to 21 centimeters, crafted from gold that is 22 carats pure. The sections are connected at the top with two cross bands (kamaras) that are four centimeters wide, adorned where they overlap with a cross. The kamaras are embellished with pairs of 30 emeralds and rubies. The bands trace their origin to a gold belt that was reportedly a wedding gift from Blanca of Valois, possibly from her half-brother, King Philip VI of France.
The crown is adorned with 96 precious stones, with the most unique being the red rubellite, which was thought to be a ruby until 1998 and is regarded as the largest of its kind in the world. In medieval times, most red stones were mistakenly called rubies, and due to its unusual three-claw setting, this stone showcases star-like reflections and a rich internal character that highlights its polished natural mound. High-quality and larger ruby stones are harder to find and more valuable than bigger diamonds. The crown includes 19 sapphires, and notably, one cornflower blue sapphire on the front is the largest ever placed on any crown, setting a world record. Additionally, the crown features 30 emeralds, 44 spinels, one ruby, a rubellite, an aqua marine, plus 20 pearls. The cross at the top is said to contain a thorn from the crown of Jesus Christ, which Charles IV received as a gift from the French King John II, evidenced by the Latin inscription reading “Hic est spina de corona Domini” (Here is a thorn from the crown of the Lord) engraved on the gold rim of the cross.
Exhibition of the Crown Jewels: Vivat Georgius Rex Bohemiae
The exhibition of the crown jewels, titled Vivat Georgius Rex Bohemiae, is being held at Kunštát Castle from 7 June to 30 August 2025. This unique event showcases treasures from Czech royal history and celebrates the 20th anniversary of the castle’s stewardship by the National Heritage Institute.
Upon entering the exhibition, visitors will encounter authentic replicas of the Czech Crown Jewels, accompanied by detailed information about King George of Poděbrady. The highlight is the St. Wenceslas Crown, the most treasured item in the collection, crafted from 22-carat gold and weighing 2,358 grams. The crown is adorned with 96 precious stones, including rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
In addition to the crown, scepter, and orb, the exhibition offers fascinating insights into the monarch’s burial garments and other personal artifacts belonging to King George of Poděbrady. The theme centers on his life and legacy, providing a deeper understanding of Czech history.
A special guided tour takes place every Thursday at 5 p.m., featuring exclusive access to the Crown Jewels exhibition. Tours can be scheduled by phone at 516 462 062 or by email at [email protected].
Beyond the exhibition, visitors can admire the castle’s original decorations from its last noble owners, enjoy the historic dog cemetery, and walk on some of the oldest parquet floors in Europe—creating a truly authentic and memorable atmosphere.
