Vratislavice nad Nisou restores historic 1841 crystal chandelier

A unique crystal chandelier dating back to 1841 has been returned to the Holy Trinity Church in Vratislavice nad Nisou following an extensive five-week restoration. The chandelier, which had likely not been removed since its installation, underwent a complete overhaul at the Preciosa Lighting workshop in Kamenický Šenov.

The restoration was a collaborative effort involving the municipality of Vratislavice nad Nisou, Preciosa Lighting, and the National Heritage Institute in Liberec. The project cost the local government more than 300,000 CZK. The massive fixture stands 2.38 meters tall, has a diameter of 1.71 meters, and weighs approximately 122.5 kg. It is composed of 2,116 individual components, including 113 glass parts and 330 glass pendants.

During the process, specialists addressed heavily soiled glass elements and worn metal parts. The restoration included recreating eight missing hand-blown glass roses. Experts noted the high level of traditional craftsmanship involved, specifically the manual polishing techniques using pumice and wax that are rarely practiced in modern production. The chandelier is currently on display during the Crystal Valley Week 2026 festival.