Published: December 21 2023
In a recent archaeological dig at the former royal palace in Visegrád, Hungary, experts have unearthed a 700-year-old gold-plated silver jewel. Believed to have belonged to Queen Elizabeth of Poland, the discovery provides a glimpse into Hungary's royal history during the Anjou period.
Uncovering the Jewel in Visegrád
During excavations for the Visegrád Renaissance Development Program, the oldest surviving building of the first Visegrád royal palace was discovered. Adjacent to the former palace chapel, a stone building from the time of Charles I of Hungary was found, along with a pair of gilded, cast-silver clothes pegs. These delicate clasps, measuring just 3.5 cm wide, were likely used to fasten the neckline of women's dresses during the Middle Ages.
Queen Elizabeth's Connection
The building in which the jewel was found was likely built for Queen Elizabeth of Poland, wife of Charles I of Hungary. After Charles's death, the building was enlarged and converted into a one-story house. It was later demolished in the reign of Mary, Queen of Hungary. This suggests that the jewel may have belonged to Queen Elizabeth during her time in the palace.
The Visegrád Renaissance Development Program
As part of the Visegrád Renaissance Development Program, the Castle Authority is working to rebuild the historic buildings of Visegrád in a contemporary style. This program aims to preserve and showcase Hungary's rich royal history for future generations.
Conclusion
The discovery of the 700-year-old jewel in Visegrád provides valuable insights into the royal history of Hungary during the Anjou period. Believed to have once belonged to Queen Elizabeth of Poland, this artifact is a rare find that adds to our understanding of the country's rich cultural heritage.
Questions & Answers
What was discovered during the archaeological excavation in Visegrád, Hungary? During the archaeological excavation in Visegrád, experts discovered a 700-year-old gold-plated silver jewel.
Who could have owned the gold-plated silver jewel found in Visegrád? It is believed that the jewel could have adorned the dress of Elizabeth of Poland, Queen of Hungary.
Where was the jewel found in Visegrád? The jewel was found near the former palace chapel dedicated to Saint George, at the foot of the Castle Hill.
What is the significance of the Anjou-period in Hungary? The Anjou-period in Hungary refers to the years 1308-1385 and 1386-1395. It was a unique period in Hungarian history.
What were the small clasps used for in the Middle Ages? The small clasps were used to fasten the neckline of women's dresses in the Middle Ages.
Who commissioned the building that was excavated in Visegrád? The building excavated in Visegrád was likely commissioned by Charles I of Hungary for his wife, Queen Elizabeth of Poland.
When was the building in Visegrád excavated? The building in Visegrád was excavated during the preparations for the Visegrád Renaissance Development Program.
What happened to the building after Charles I's death? After Charles I's death, the building was considerably enlarged and converted into a one-story house.
When was the old Queen's House demolished in Visegrád? The old Queen's House was demolished at the end of the 14th century, during the reign of Mary, Queen of Hungary.
What is the Visegrád Renaissance Development Program? The Visegrád Renaissance Development Program aims to rebuild the historic buildings of Visegrád in a contemporary style.
