Habsburg Family: Legendary Treasure Found in Canada to Remain There
The legendary jewels of the Habsburg family, long thought lost or coveted by thieves, have been discovered in Canada after being stored in a bank for nearly 85 years. The revelation was made on November 7, following inquiries from descendants of the Habsburgs to various media outlets, including El-Balad. The family announced that these treasures would remain in Canada as a symbol of gratitude for the refuge given to their grandmother during World War II.
Habsburg Treasures: An Incredible Discovery
This remarkable story unfolded when the New York Times reported the existence of these iconic jewels, initiating a dialogue with the Quebec media. Archduke Lorenz and Archduke Simeon von Habsburg-Lothringen shared their family’s sentiments about the discovery during a virtual conference. They expressed gratitude for Canada’s hospitality towards their grandmother, Zita of Bourbon-Parma, who sought asylum there during the war.
The Treasures Revealed
- The collection includes 14 substantial gemstones.
- A standout piece is the Florentine diamond, weighing 137.27 carats.
- This diamond has a history tied to notable figures, including Charles the Bold and Marie Antoinette.
The jewels had been reported missing since 1922. Their fate was shrouded in mystery after being secured in a Swiss bank by Emperor Charles I following the Austro-Hungarian monarchy’s collapse after World War I. The Habsburg dynasty believed the treasures might have been stolen or lost, and it was only recently that the truth surfaced.
The History of the Habsburg Family
Zita, who became a widow, lived in exile in several European countries. During this period, she chose Canada for its European and Catholic ties, settling in Quebec from 1940 to 1948. Interestingly, the bank where the jewels were stored was likely in Quebec, given her presence there.
The family’s decision to keep the treasures a secret was influenced by the political climate in post-war Europe. The Habsburgs refrained from disclosing the jewels’ whereabouts until a century after Charles I’s death.
Future Prospects for the Jewels
As the Habsburg family disclosed the re-discovery, the Austrian government expressed interest in reviewing the rightful ownership of the Florentine diamond. However, the Habsburgs maintain that these jewels are private property.
Sabotaging any potential claims, the family argues that the treasures represent more than just personal wealth; they embody cultural heritage. The province of Quebec is eager to facilitate public access to display these historic jewels. Minister of Culture Mathieu Lacombe confirmed ongoing discussions with the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec to find an appropriate venue.
Conclusion: A Cultural Connection
This phenomenal discovery of the Habsburg family’s legendary jewels offers a unique narrative that intertwines Canadian history with European aristocracy. The future of these exquisite artifacts will likely enhance the cultural landscape of Quebec, symbolizing an enduring bond between the Habsburgs and their Canadian sanctuary.
