Story perspectives

Man Arrested for Stealing 800-Year-Old Saint Zdislava Skull

5/16/2026

Summary

Police Detain

Police detained a 35-year-old man suspected of stealing Saint Zdislava’s 800-year-old skull.
The theft occurred on May 13, 2026, from a box in Saint Lawrence and Saint Zdislava basilica in Jablonne v Podjestedi.
Fuzzy security-camera footage captured a black silhouette running between the benches near the relic.
Archbishop Stanislav Pribyl called the theft devastating for pilgrims.
Police announced on May 14, 2026 that they had information on the skull’s location.

Summary

Police Investigate Theft

Police said the alarm was disabled for an upcoming service, creating a security gap that enabled the theft.
Investigators noted the thief left the gilded crown on the relic untouched, indicating the theft was not financially motivated.
Mayor Jirí Rýdl warned the thief knew the church’s routines and suggested an ideological motive.
Archbishop Stanislav Pribyl warned the thief could be cursed if the skull is not returned, sparking pilgrim concern.

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Police Detain

Police detained a 35-year-old man suspected of stealing Saint Zdislava’s 800-year-old skull.
The theft occurred on May 13, 2026, from a box in Saint Lawrence and Saint Zdislava basilica in Jablonne v Podjestedi.
Fuzzy security-camera footage captured a black silhouette running between the benches near the relic.
Archbishop Stanislav Pribyl called the theft devastating for pilgrims.
Police announced on May 14, 2026 that they had information on the skull’s location.

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