A remarkable discovery of royal burial regalia was announced on January 6, following an extensive search by a team of experts in the underground chambers of Vilnius Cathedral. The team utilized an endoscopic camera on December 16 to examine holes, fissures, and cavities within the cathedral's walls, leading to the astonishing find of a cache that had been concealed for nearly a century.
The royal regalia, which include several crowns, rings, chains, a scepter, an orb, and coffin plaques, were hidden in a niche beneath a staircase. These treasures were initially collected in 1931 after a flood exposed the sarcophagi of three notable 16th-century rulers, including Alexander Jagiellon, Grand Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland, and two of the wives of Sigismund II Augustus: Elisabeth of Austria and Barbara Radziwiłł. Historical records indicate that the regalia were intended for funerary purposes and placed in the sarcophagi at the time of their burial.
Lithuania has few authentic artifacts from this significant historical period. This rediscovery reinforces the notion that Vilnius Cathedral served as a burial ground for the elite of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The regalia are described as "magnificent works of goldsmithing and jewellery," showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the time.
The treasures have been thoroughly documented and cataloged, with plans for restoration before they are displayed to the public later this year. Notably, a newspaper dated September 1939 was found wrapped around the royal accessories, providing insight into the circumstances that led to their concealment just prior to World War II.
The discovery is seen as a monumental event for both the State of Lithuania and its citizens. As Vilnius Archbishop Gintaras Grušas remarked, "The discovered burial insignia of the monarchs of Lithuania and Poland are priceless historical treasures." Rita Pauliukevičiūtė, director of the Vilnius Church Heritage Museum, emphasized their significance further by stating, "These symbols are important both for the State and for each of us."
