Hrobka českých králů, Royal tomb in Prague Castle, Czech Republic
The Royal Tomb is a burial chamber beneath St. Vitus Cathedral that holds fourteen separate crypts with marble floors and golden mosaic vaulted ceilings. The underground space features rich materials and stores the remains of multiple Bohemian rulers across different centuries.
Emperor Rudolf II ordered construction of a new royal burial chamber in the late 16th century and had remains transferred from an older crypt. These relocations made the chamber a central place for the Bohemian royal dynasty.
The name reflects the royal burial tradition of Bohemia that evolved over centuries. Visitors can see today how the different tombs and their varied styles show changes in how rulers were honored.
Access is through a separate entrance built by architect Kamil Hilbert from the Chapel of the Holy Cross within the cathedral complex. Visitors should expect tight spaces and dim lighting that preserves the historical setting.
Charles IV's sarcophagus sits at the center, while Rudolf II's tin Renaissance coffin displays national emblems and six angels carved on its lid. This craftsmanship makes the coffin an artistic work that reflects a ruler's power and position.
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