Royal Crowns and Insignia in Medieval Bohemia

Royal Crowns and Insignia in Medieval Bohemia The bachelor's thesis deals with medieval royal crowns and other insignia in the Czech lands from the early Přemyslid period to the reign of Emperor Charles IV of Luxembourg. It traces the development of these attributes in a broader European context, especially with regard to ancient and Byzantine influences, focusing on their art-historical and iconographic significance. Given the good availability of sources and preserved objects, special attention is devoted/paid to the insignia of Czech origin, primarily the Přemyslid insignia and the Crown of Saint Wenceslas. The aim of the thesis is also to highlight the contemporary perception of the crown, which considerably exceeded the notion of a material jewel, symbol of the ruler, and expression of majesty's power over the governed territory.The text also addresses preserved ladies' crowns and other coronation insignia of the 14th century. The topic is supplemented by an explanation of the Charles IV 's coronation order, which provides a better understanding of the significance and use of regalia during coronation rituals. KEYWORDS Czech royal crowns, coronation insignia, royal insignia, Přemyslid insignia, St. Wenceslas Crown, Middle Ages, Charles IV.