Památky středních Čech 2025, 39(2)
The Karlštejn Treasure: Between Tradition and Sources
Reconstruction of History and Transformations of Interpretation
The Karlštejn treasure, consisting of 14th-century silver and gilt artefacts kept at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague, has been asso ciated with Karlštejn Castle for more than a century. However, recent available sources indicate that this connection is likely more legend than verified history. The reconstruction of its acquisition, exhibitions, and expert debates reveals how the story evolved over time, became institutionally established, and gained significance in the interpretation of Bohemian medieval goldsmithing.
Keywords: Karlštejn treasure – medieval goldsmithery – Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague – František Borovský – Karel Chytil – collecting – Waldes Museum – new sources – clarification of history
Published: January 1, 2026 Show citation
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