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Everything You Need to Know About the Austrian Crown Jewels, Housed at the Imperial Treasury Vienna

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?

Austrian Crown jewels

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?

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

Austrian Crown jewels

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.

Austrian Crown jewels

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.

Austrian Crown jewels

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.

Austrian Crown jewels

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.

A Brief History of the Crown Jewels

The Imperial Regalia, also known as the Crown Jewels, symbolize the authority of the Holy Roman Empire. From 1438, the House of Habsburg ruled the empire, except for a short period. Starting in 1508, the German King no longer sought papal coronation but declared themselves Roman emperor directly. The crown was believed to be used first during Konrad II's coronation and last seen during Franz II's in 1792. Usually stored in Nuremberg, with a smaller portion in Aachen, the regalia were transferred to Vienna for safekeeping in 1796 due to the French Revolutionary Wars. Despite the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, the regalia remained in the Schatzkammer. Attempts by Aachen and Nuremberg to reclaim them were unsuccessful. They were briefly relocated to Nuremberg during Hitler's "Anschluss" in 1938 but were recovered by American troops after the war and returned to Vienna in 1946.

Visitor Tips

  • Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure entry to the Crown Jewels exhibit.
  • Take your time to admire each piece of the Crown Jewels, as they hold immense historical and cultural value.
  • Photography is not allowed in certain areas, so be sure to respect the rules and regulations of the exhibit.
  • Listen attentively to any audio guides or explanations provided to enhance your understanding of the Crown Jewels.
  • Keep in mind that the Crown Jewels are delicate and valuable artifacts, so refrain from touching them or getting too close.
  • Plan to visit the Imperial Treasury during weekdays or non-peak hours to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience.
  • Take note of any specific security measures or guidelines provided to ensure the safety of the Crown Jewels.
  • Make sure to explore the other sections of the Imperial Treasury Vienna to discover additional treasures and exhibits that complement the Crown Jewels.

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.

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