Czech Police Hunt Thief Who Stole 800-Year-Old Saint's Skull

Czech authorities are actively searching for a suspect who stole the 800-year-old skull of Saint Zdislava of Lemberk from the Saint Lawrence and Saint Zdislava basilica in Jablonne v Podjestedi. The theft occurred when the individual snatched the relic from a display box and fled the church. Police released a grainy security camera image showing a figure dressed in black running between the pews while carrying the skull. Although initially identified as a man, investigators are currently reviewing footage to confirm the suspect's gender. Dagmar Sochorova, a police spokesperson, emphasized that while the monetary value is under investigation, the historical significance of the relic is incalculable. Archbishop Stanislav Pribyl expressed devastation over the incident, noting the skull was a revered object of adoration for pilgrims visiting the site where the saint lived and worked in the 13th century. Saint Zdislava, a noblewoman known for her charity, was canonized in 1995. The incident has drawn significant attention due to the spiritual and historical importance of the artifact to the local Catholic community and believers across the region.