An Italian court has dismissed the heirs of the last king’s claim to the crown jewels, stating that these national treasures are the property of the state. The judge labeled their request as “manifestly unfounded.”
In February 2022, the descendants of Italy’s last monarch filed a lawsuit against the Italian government to reclaim the jewels, which have been held in a secure vault at the Bank of Italy since 1946.
The heirs of King Umberto II of Savoy were unable to negotiate with the bank for the return of the jewels, which include over 6,000 diamonds and 2,000 pearls set in various items such as pins, necklaces, and tiaras worn by royal figures during Italy’s 85-year monarchy.
The approximate value of these jewels is around 300 million euros, according to The Guardian.
Queen Margherita of Italy was known for her extensive jewelry collection, which she frequently showcased.
Umberto had instructed the minister of his royal household to transfer the jewels to the then-director of the Bank of Italy for safekeeping.
The jewels are believed to be the only part of the royal estate not seized by the Italian government after the monarchy was abolished in 1946. This is why the former royal family aimed to reclaim them.
In light of the court’s decision, the lawyer for the king’s heirs announced plans to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights and will also seek compensation for all real estate once owned by Italy’s last king.
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