Published: December 20 2023
In the historic palace near Budapest, a 700-year-old gilded silver jewel has been discovered. This jewel is believed to have adorned the dress of Queen Elisabeth Piast.
A Unique Discovery
During archaeological excavations for the Visegrád Renaissance Development Programme, a unique Anjou-period jewel was unearthed at the former royal palace in Visegrád. The jewel, a finely crafted pair of clasps with openwork decoration, is just 3.5 cm wide. It was found near the former palace chapel, suggesting that the excavated building may have been constructed for Queen Elisabeth's residence.
The Significance of the Jewel
This gilded silver jewel dates back to the first half of the 14th century and was used to tie the necklines of women's dresses in the Middle Ages. The fact that it was discovered in the former royal palace adds to its historical and cultural significance.
The History of the Visegrád Mansion
References from the mid-1340s mention the independent Visegrád mansion of Queen Elisabeth Piast. After the death of King Charles I, the building underwent expansion and transformation. It was finally demolished in the late 14th century. The site of the old queen's mansion is now the only visible example of the early Angevin royal residence in Visegrád.
The Preservation and Impact
The discovery of this 700-year-old jewel provides valuable insights into the history and culture of Visegrád. It is a reminder of the rich heritage and significance of the former royal palace. This finding highlights the importance of continued archaeological excavations and preservation efforts in uncovering and protecting Hungary's historical treasures.
Questions & Answers
What was discovered in the former royal palace in Visegrád near Budapest? A 700-year-old gilded silver jewel was discovered in the former royal palace in Visegrád. It is believed to have adorned the dress of Queen Elisabeth Piast.
Where was the jewel found? The jewel was found near the former palace chapel in Visegrád, at the foot of Castle Hill.
What kind of building was excavated in Visegrád? The excavation in Visegrád uncovered the oldest surviving building of the first royal palace in Visegrád. It was a large Anjou-period mansion.
What type of jewel was discovered? The discovered jewel is a pair of gilded, cast-silver clothes pegs. They are finely crafted with openwork decoration and are 3.5 cm wide.
When does the recovered jewel date back to? The recovered jewel dates back to the first half of the 14th century.
Who is believed to have owned the jewel? There is speculation that the jewel might have belonged to Queen Elisabeth Piast, the wife of Charles I. It is believed that the excavated building was constructed for her residence.
What happened to the building after Queen Elisabeth's death? After King Charles I's death, the building underwent expansion and transformation into a single-storey house. It was not demolished until the late 14th century during the reign of Queen Mary.
What is the significance of the excavated building in Visegrád? The excavated building is the only visible example of the early Angevin royal residence in Visegrád. It is a historic site that provides insight into the history of the area.
