Takes place on:

From : 5. 4. 2004 To : 31. 12. 2014

The permanent exhibition

The Story of Prague Castle offers a view of more than thousand years' history of Prague Castle. The exhibition tells the story of the main castle complex in the country and the people connected with it - from the rulers and presidents to the aristocrats, courtiers, famous artists, builders, architects, scholars, tradesmen and servants. It is a story of a complex that conceals the mystery of the last place of rest of the most important Bohemian rulers and saints, a place that houses the Czech crown jewels and the St Vitus treasury, but also a place that serves as the dignified seat of the head of the Czech Republic.

New artefact in the Story of the Prague Castle:

St. Wenceslas' preserved body armour. The helmet, armour and St. Wenceslas’ sword (part of the cathedral treasure) have recently undergone extensive research and were also newly restored. The sword is now showcased in the permanent exhibit of the treasure while the helmet is a part of the Story of the Prague Castle. The armour will be exhibited alongside the helmet in the showcase featuring this iconic Czech patron saint. Helmets, armour and swords, especially those belonging to St. Wenceslas, have always constituted the oldest and most valuable artefacts. References to these objects have appeared in several historic sources, but they have been researched in later works as well. The early mentions, as well as more recent interpretations, maintain these artefacts are linked with St. Wenceslas or the subsequent era. Although, some early 20th century opinions from several professionals maintain the sword to be gothic. Recently, it has been determined this sword may have been owned by St. Wenceslas. The helmet, possibly forged in Bohemia from one piece of iron, may have belonged to the saint. The helmet most likely was used in battle, based on the opening at the back, possibly from a blow with a hatchet. St. Wenceslas most likely owned body armour as well. It also dates back to the 10th century. It is from Byzantium or Near East (perhaps Persia), but domestic origin cannot be ruled out (Great Moravian Empire).