Saturday, March 29, 2025
A civil court in Rome has ruled that the Italian royal crown jewels will remain in the custody of the state. The verdict blocks an attempt by the descendants of Italy’s last king to reclaim the national treasure.
In 2022, the heirs of King Umberto II sued the Italian government. They wanted to regain possession of the jewels, which have been stored at the Bank of Italy for nearly 78 years. These jewels include over 6,000 diamonds and 2,000 pearls, mounted on tiaras, necklaces, and brooches worn during the monarchy’s 85-year reign.
The court dismissed the claim, calling it “manifestly unfounded.” Bank of Italy lawyer Olina Capolino welcomed the ruling and expressed hope that the public will soon see the jewels displayed in a museum.
The jewels were delivered to the Bank of Italy on 5 June 1946. This came just three days after Italy voted to abolish the monarchy. Umberto II, who reigned for just 34 days, went into exile along with his male heirs shortly after.
He instructed Falcone Lucifero, the royal house’s minister, to give the jewels to Luigi Einaudi, then-governor of the Bank of Italy. Einaudi later became president of Italy.
Lawyer Sergio Orlandi, representing the descendants, said they plan to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. The royal heirs also want compensation for other properties once owned by the king.
The former royal family argued that the jewels were not officially confiscated after the monarchy ended. They hoped that technicality would help them regain control of the collection.
However, the court ruled that the jewels are part of Italy’s cultural heritage. The state now has full legal control, ending the decades-long dispute.
