Imperial Sword, Ceremonial sword in Hofburg Palace, Austria
The Imperial Sword is a ceremonial blade housed in Vienna's Hofburg Palace, measuring approximately 110 centimeters long. Its steel surface features intricate silver wire wrapping and gilt ornaments, while the scabbard displays elaborate relief figures.
The blade was created around 1198 for Emperor Otto IV and served as part of the Imperial Regalia during coronation ceremonies of the Holy Roman Empire. It embodies the formal authority that rulers claimed across centuries.
The scabbard displays fourteen gold-plated figures of rulers spanning from Charlemagne through Henry III. These depictions reflect the continuity of rule that visitors can still observe today.
The blade is on display in the Imperial Treasury at the Hofburg and can be visited during regular museum hours. Visitors should allow time to examine the fine details and inscriptions closely.
The cross-guard bears Latin inscriptions reading "CHRISTVS VINCIT CHRISTVS REIGNAT CHRISTVS INPERAT." This inscription conveys a concept asserting Christ's authority over secular rulers.
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