Guarrazar Hoard

This hoard is made from six crowns, four crosses and two coated plates from the arms of a large cross, made of gold that is somewhat reddish due to alloying it with copper. The crown of King Reccesvinth is the most complex piece given its structure and decoration, which is framed by settings for cabochons. Letters that make up the legend + [r]eccesvinthvs rex offeret hang from the lower edge. This is the most emblematic set of precious metal work from the Visigothic period. The theory is that it was hidden in a hole because of the danger of looting and the lack of security caused by the Islamic invasion. The hoard was discovered by chance in 1858 near Guarrazar fountain by locals in Guadamur, and included numerous gold and silver objects, gifts or pious donations from kings and other senior civil and religious figures to a large church or monastery in Toledo. They were used to enhance the ecclesiastic buildings in the capital of the kingdom, adorning the alters and bays of the naves with crowns. After the ups and downs in the long and unfortunate history of the Guarrazar jewels, it is now finally possible to see the most significant set at the National Archaeological Museum. Another part of the hoard is currently kept at the Royal Armoury Museum at the Royal Palace of Madrid, and a third part is held at the Musée de Cluny in Paris.