02. St. Wenceslas (Sv. Václav)

Inscription

CZ: 1940

EN: 1940

DE: 1940

Background

Saint Wenceslas was a Czech prince from the Přemyslid dynasty, born around 907 and murdered by his brother Boleslav in 935. He was known for his Christian piety, care for the poor, and efforts to strengthen the Czech state and church, including founding the Rotunda of St. Vitus in Prague. After his death, he was quickly venerated as a saint and martyr, and many legends describe miracles associated with him. His legacy became a symbol of Czech statehood and Christian values, and he is celebrated annually on September 28, a national holiday in the Czech Republic. Saint Wenceslas is considered the patron saint of the Czech nation, representing moral integrity, national unity, and resistance against oppression. His image and story have been used throughout Czech history to inspire patriotism, especially during times of crisis. He is also a cultural icon, appearing on coins, in literature, and in national monuments like the famous statue on Wenceslas Square in Prague.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wenceslaus_I,_Duke_of_Bohemia

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