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Contents
Located in the heart of Vienna, the Imperial Treasury is a must-visit destination for history buffs, jewelry lovers, and anyone who appreciates grandeur and opulence. With over 1000 years of history, this stunning museum houses an impressive collection of imperial regalia and precious objects, reminding visitors of the former power and wealth of the Habsburg dynasty.
Read on to know more about the highlights of the collection, useful information and some insider tips to help you make the most of your experience.
What to See at Imperial Treasury Vienna?
The Imperial Treasury Vienna boasts an incredible collection of imperial regalia and precious objects that span over 1000 years of history. Visitors can expect to see an impressive display of Crown Jewels, including the Austrian imperial crown, sceptre, and orb, as well as the famous Holy Lance. The collection also includes rare objects such as the unicorn horn, an ebony travel kit belonging to Charles V, and a collection of precious vessels studded with diamonds and other precious gems. Many of the collections date back to the Medieval and Renaissance periods, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the wealth and power of the Habsburg dynasty.
What are the Austrian Crown Jewels?
The Austrian Crown Jewels encompass the ceremonial attire and symbols worn by the Holy Roman Emperor and later the Emperor of Austria during coronations and state functions. This collection includes crowns, sceptres, orbs, swords, rings, crosses, holy relics, royal robes, and other ceremonial objects. Spanning from the 10th to the 19th centuries, these treasures represent over a thousand years of European history. Housed in the Imperial Treasury at Vienna's Hofburg Palace, the collection's most notable pieces are the insignia of the hereditary Empire of Austria, including the Imperial Crown, Orb, Sceptre, mantle of the Austrian Empire, and the Coronation Robes of the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia.
The Austrian Crown Jewels Explained
Crown of the Austrian Empire
The Crown of Rudolf II, later known as the Crown of the Austrian Empire, was created by Jan Vermeyen in Prague in 1602. Crafted from pure gold and adorned with diamonds, rubies, spinel rubies, sapphires, pearls, and velvet, it consists of three main elements that represent the authority to rule. These elements include the circlet with fleur-de-lis mounts resembling a royal crown, the descending high arch from the imperial crown, and the golden mitre symbolizing the emperor's divine right to govern. Rows of pearls illuminate the crown, and it is topped by a bluish-green emerald that represents heaven.
Imperial Orb and Sceptre
The exquisite Imperial Orb and Sceptre, skillfully crafted by the talented artisan Andreas Osenbruck in Prague, found their origin in the illustrious reign of Emperor Matthias, who succeeded the esteemed ruler Rudolf II. These remarkable insignia, fashioned from the very same precious materials as the crown, bear a harmonious design, radiating opulence. Enhanced by meticulous enameling techniques, these treasures are adorned with a splendid array of glistening rubies, sapphires, and lustrous pearls, adding an enchanting allure to their captivating splendor.
Mantle of the Austrian Empire
Commissioned by Emperor Francis I for the coronation of his son Ferdinand as the younger King of Hungary, the Mantle of the Austrian Empire, created in 1830, was designed by Philipp von Stubenrauch and crafted by Johann Fritz, a Master Gold Embroiderer in Vienna. Constructed with red velvet, ermine, and white silk, the mantle features a scattered pattern of gold-embroidered double eagles adorned with the Austrian arms. The border is embellished with oak and laurel leaves.
Coronation Robes
The Coronation Robes of the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia, crafted in 1838 by Philipp von Stubenrauch and Johann Fritz in Vienna, bear resemblance to the Mantle of the Austrian Empire. These robes are made of blue and orange velvet with white moiré, adorned with gold and silver embroidery, ermine, and lace. Along the edge of the mantle, medallions showcase the Iron Crown of Lombardy. Additionally, a decorative border runs parallel to the medallions, featuring intricate patterns of palm fronds, oak leaves, and laurel leaves.
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All Your Questionhs About Imperial Treasury Vienna Crown Jewels Answered
What are the Crown Jewels at the Imperial Treasury Vienna?
The Crown Jewels refer to the regalia and ceremonial objects worn by the Holy Roman Emperor and later the Emperor of Austria.
Can visitors touch or try on the Crown Jewels?
No, the Crown Jewels are strictly displayed for viewing purposes only, and touching or trying them on is not allowed.
Are the Crown Jewels replicas or the original artifacts?
The Crown Jewels on display at the Imperial Treasury Vienna are the original artifacts used by the monarchs during coronations and state functions.
Are the Crown Jewels heavily guarded?
Yes, the Crown Jewels are kept under tight security measures to ensure their protection and preservation.
Can visitors take photographs of the Crown Jewels?
It is allowed to take photographs of the Crown Jewels. However, using flash and tripods is prohibited.
Are there any famous gems or diamonds in the Crown Jewels collection?
Yes, the Crown Jewels include remarkable gemstones such as the largest cut emerald in the world, adding to the grandeur of the collection.
How old are the Crown Jewels at the Imperial Treasury Vienna?
The Crown Jewels collection spans several centuries, dating from the 10th to the 19th centuries, representing a rich history of European royalty.
Are there any religious artifacts among the Crown Jewels?
Yes, the Crown Jewels collection includes religious relics, crosses, and other sacred objects used in the coronation ceremonies.
Can visitors buy souvenirs at the Imperial Treasury Vienna?
Souvenir shops near the Imperial Treasury Vienna may offer stuff you can buy to remember the trip.
Is there an extra fee to see the Crown Jewels?
Entrance to the Imperial Treasury Vienna typically includes access to the Crown Jewels exhibit, so there is no separate fee.
Are there any famous or notable pieces among the Crown Jewels?
Yes, there are several standout pieces, including the Imperial Crown, the Holy Lance, and the Coronation Robes of the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia.
Are the Crown Jewels made of real precious stones and metals?
Yes, the Crown Jewels are crafted from genuine precious stones, such as diamonds and emeralds, and precious metals like gold and silver.