Famous Medieval Reliquaries to Know for European Art and Civilization Before 1400

Medieval reliquaries are stunning artworks that held sacred relics, reflecting the deep spirituality of the time. These treasures, crafted from precious materials, showcase the intersection of faith, artistry, and power in European civilization before 1400.

1. Shrine of the Three Kings, Cologne Cathedral

   • Houses the relics of the Three Magi, believed to be the biblical figures who visited Jesus.
   • Crafted in the 13th century, it is a prime example of Gothic metalwork and artistry.
   • The shrine is adorned with intricate gold and silver decorations, showcasing the wealth and power of the Cologne archbishopric.

2. Reliquary of Sainte-Foy, Conques

   • Contains the remains of Saint Foy, a young martyr, and is a significant pilgrimage site.
   • Created in the 9th or 10th century, it features a striking gold and silver exterior with gemstones.
   • The reliquary reflects the Romanesque style and the importance of relics in medieval spirituality.

3. Arm Reliquary of Charlemagne

   • Believed to hold the arm of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, symbolizing his divine right to rule.
   • Made in the 9th century, it showcases the artistry of Carolingian metalwork.
   • The reliquary emphasizes the connection between political power and religious authority during the medieval period.

4. Stavelot Triptych

   • A three-part reliquary that contains relics of Saint Martin and Saint Remigius, significant figures in Christianity.
   • Created in the 12th century, it features intricate enamel work and narrative scenes.
   • The triptych illustrates the importance of storytelling in medieval art and the veneration of saints.

5. Reliquary of St. Taurinus

   • Holds the relics of St. Taurinus, the first bishop of Evreux, emphasizing local religious devotion.
   • Crafted in the 11th century, it is notable for its detailed craftsmanship and historical significance.
   • Reflects the regional importance of saints and their relics in medieval communities.

6. Head Reliquary of Saint Alexander

   • Contains the skull of Saint Alexander, a martyr, and is a significant object of veneration.
   • Made in the 11th century, it features elaborate goldsmithing and is often used in liturgical contexts.
   • Highlights the practice of displaying relics as a means of connecting the faithful with the divine.

7. Reliquary of the Holy Thorn

   • Believed to contain a thorn from the crown of Christ, making it a highly revered relic.
   • Created in the 13th century, it is adorned with precious materials and intricate designs.
   • Represents the medieval fascination with Christ's Passion and the significance of relics in personal piety.

8. Reliquary of St. Oswald

   • Houses the relics of St. Oswald, an important Anglo-Saxon king and martyr.
   • Crafted in the 10th century, it features a combination of metalwork and decorative elements.
   • Reflects the intersection of royal authority and religious devotion in medieval England.

9. Reliquary of St. Sebastian

   • Contains the relics of St. Sebastian, a popular martyr and protector against plague.
   • Created in the 14th century, it showcases the artistic styles of the late medieval period.
   • Emphasizes the role of saints in providing protection and intercession for the faithful.

10. Monymusk Reliquary

• A unique example of a medieval reliquary, believed to hold the relics of St. Columba.
• Made in the 8th century, it features intricate carvings and is significant for its historical context.
• Highlights the importance of relics in the spread of Christianity in Scotland and the British Isles.