Discover the Golden Reliquary of Saint Maurus: A Hidden Gem in Czechia!
Like In A Film: The Quest for a Golden Treasure
In 1984, an intriguing proposition came from American Danny Douglas to the officials of what was then Czechoslovakia. He offered to export a precious but vaguely described artefact for the lofty sum of 250,000 dollars. This enigmatic proposal piqued the interest of the security services of the time, triggering a series of events that would unravel a long-lost treasure hidden beneath the chapel’s wooden floor at Bečov Castle.
The Discovery of the Reliquary at Bečov
Through thorough investigations conducted by the criminal police, coupled with possible surveillance of Danny Douglas himself, it was revealed that the coveted artefact might indeed be in Bečov nad Teplou. This town, along with the castle, was once under the ownership of the notable noble family of Beaufort-Spontin, who had to flee their Czech estate hastily at the close of World War II. Given the size of the reliquary, it was clear that such a precious object couldn’t have been easily transported away. Ultimately, the reliquary was unearthed on November 5, 1985.
DAN BROWN’S MYSTERIES: The city of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, has been selected as the backdrop for the upcoming novel, The Secret of Secrets (2025), authored by the renowned American writer Dan Brown, famous for his blockbusters like The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons. This much-anticipated novel will hit the shelves on September 9, 2025. Just over a week later, on September 18, 2025, Brown will personally visit Prague for a book presentation, engaging with fans at Lucerna. Additionally, this Prague-centered thriller will be adapted into a series by Netflix, with filming slated for 2026. Brown is co-creating and executive-producing the series, with Morgan Spector to portray Robert Langdon.
A Toxic Tooth from a Prehistoric Fish
In the wake of its discovery, a meticulous restoration project commenced, spanning an impressive 12 years. The dedicated restorers utilized authentic materials (be sure to catch the documentary featuring the chief restorers at the permanent exhibition). However, the original oak core was deemed too deteriorated and had to be substituted with walnut wood, which visitors can see firsthand.
This early Romanesque masterwork is embellished with fourteen gilded silver statuettes, admired for their intricate reliefs, alongside precious and semi-precious gemstones, filigree work, and delicate enamels. A fascinating detail is that one of the stones is actually a tooth from a prehistoric fish, believed to have the power to protect against poisons.
The Reliquary of Saint Maurus was originally crafted around 1225–1230 in the Florennes Monastery, situated in Belgium. It was intended to honor the relics of saints, initially dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and later enhanced with relics from Saints Maurus, Timothy, and Apollinaris.
Where is Bečov nad Teplou? Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Krušné Mountains, Bečov nad Teplou is located approximately 25 kilometers south of Karlovy Vary, one of the most renowned spa towns in Czechia. Its scenic position makes it an ideal stop for travelers in pursuit of both relaxation and rich history, perfectly complementing the spa towns within the celebrated golden triangle of West Bohemia.
Bečov will have even more to offer in 2026. On May 1, 2026, the medieval Upper Castle (Horní hrad) will open its doors to the public for the first time following extensive restoration work. Dating back to the mid-14th century, this castle has retained its authentic medieval and early modern charm. Additionally, visitors can explore the Chapel of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, which has never been accessible to the public in contemporary times. The chapel holds particular significance, as the Reliquary of St. Maurus was found beneath its floor in 1985, where it had remained concealed for many decades.
Crown Jewels and Other Treasures in Czechia
Among the remarkable treasures in Czechia are the royal crown jewels, which comprise the St. Wenceslas Crown, the royal orb, the sceptre, and the coronation robe. These exquisite items will be available for public viewing in the Vladislav Hall of the Old Royal Palace at Prague Castle from September 19 to September 28, 2026.
Another notable artefact is the Milevsko Reliquary, uncovered in 2020 at the Church of Saint Giles in Milevsko. This relic, containing wood dated between 338 and 416 AD, is considered one of the oldest monuments in the country. Of particular interest is a fragment of an iron nail, likely from the True Cross on which Jesus Christ is thought to have been crucified. Currently, this artefact is not on public display.
For history buffs, the double-armed gold reliquary cross embellished with gems and pearls, known as the Cross of Záviš, is a must-see. This stunning piece can be viewed at the Cistercian Monastery in Vyšší Brod, though it’s only accessible during the summer months from May until the end of September.
