History Extra Podcast: "Medieval Relic Hunters: The Quest for Notre-Dame's Crown of Thorns"

Release Date: December 13, 2024

Introduction

In this captivating episode of the History Extra Podcast, hosted by Emily Gerry and featuring historian David Musgrove, listeners are taken on an enthralling journey through history, exploring the remarkable saga of the Crown of Thorns—from its biblical origins to its perilous preservation during the Notre-Dame fire. Produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine, this episode delves deep into medieval relic hunting, illuminating the intertwining of faith, power, and politics.

The Biblical Origins of the Crown of Thorns

Emily Gerry introduces the episode by setting the stage for the Crown of Thorns' significance in Christian tradition.

[02:45] David Musgrove: "Can you kick us off by just telling us a little bit about the Crown of Thorns in the biblical story. What's the backstory here?"

David Musgrove provides an overview of the Crown of Thorns as depicted in the Gospels, highlighting its role in the mockery of Christ before the Crucifixion.

[02:52] David Musgrove: "The crown of thorns might be familiar to anyone who looks at pictures of Christ and knows his passion... They twisted a band of thorns together and pressed that into his head to make fun of him."

He notes that the Crown of Thorns is primarily mentioned in three of the four Gospels and serves as a symbol of Christ's suffering and humiliation.

Early History and Dissemination of the Relic

David Musgrove transitions to the Crown's journey post-biblical times, emphasizing its early scarcity and eventual proliferation.

[04:02] David Musgrove: "You might assume that the crown of thorns would be a really desirable relic for early Christians, but in fact, you might be surprised to know it was not around the time St. Helena...

He explains that the first recorded veneration of the Crown of Thorns dates back to the early 5th century and traces its movement from Jerusalem to Constantinople. Musgrove highlights the multiplicity of relics due to the Crown's fragmentary nature, making it difficult to contain in a single artifact.

King Louis IX and the Acquisition of the Crown

The narrative shifts to the 13th century, focusing on King Louis IX of France and his pivotal role in bringing the Crown of Thorns to Paris.

[07:31] David Musgrove: "Let's take the story up to the time of Louis then. So that's in the 13th century. Where is the crown of thorns, the one that we're talking about, before it comes to Paris?"

David Musgrove details the Crown's presence in Constantinople and its eventual pawn by Emperor Baldwin II due to financial strains. Louis IX seizes the opportunity to secure the relic, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in its history.

[07:44] David Musgrove: "...the barons ... pawn off treasures in the Imperial collection... one of those items they pawn is the Crown of Thorns."

The Perilous Journey from Constantinople to Paris

The episode vividly recounts the daring mission undertaken by two Dominican friars, Jacques and Andre, to retrieve the Crown of Thorns amidst geopolitical turmoil.

[11:22] David Musgrove: "Louis there sat in France chatting to Baldwin, hears that the Crown of Thorns is in a sort of a parlous, precarious situation, and decides to do something about it. Can you sort of briefly summarize how he manages to get this important, difficult item, this wildly expensive item, transported across Europe over to Paris?"

David Musgrove narrates the friars' expedition, their challenges in Venice, including missed deadlines and threats from Venetian merchant Niccolo Corino, and their eventual success in securing the relic after multiple attempts.

[11:44] David Musgrove: "They set off in that autumn... They miss the payment deadline... sail back and are told... they have to secure more funds... eventually secure the relic and return to France."

Arrival and Holy Procession in Paris

Upon successfully retrieving the Crown, King Louis IX orchestrates a grand procession to celebrate and authenticate the relic's arrival in Paris.

[20:41] David Musgrove: "So Louis IX, he's now got the Crown of Thorns. The friars have got it to him. Tell us a little bit about Louis. We haven't heard much about him. What sort of guy is he? Obviously, he's very holy."

David Musgrove describes the elaborate ceremonies, including Louis IX removing his royal garments to don a humble tunic, symbolizing his devotion and the Crown's spiritual significance.

[21:53] David Musgrove: "They open the giant wooden box... there's a beautiful silver box... inside is the golden reliquary... they burst into tears, tears of joy."

The procession involves royal ships, almsgiving along the River Seine, and culminates in a symbolic mirroring of Christ's entry into Jerusalem, reinforcing the relic's sacredness and Louis's piety.

[26:24] David Musgrove: "What's he trying to do? ... He's projecting a different sort of power."

Louis IX's actions are portrayed as a blend of religious fervor and political acumen, uniting his subjects through shared faith and communal participation.

Establishment of Sainte-Chapelle

Following the procession, the Crown of Thorns finds its permanent home in the newly constructed Sainte-Chapelle, symbolizing royal authority and divine favor.

[32:30] Archbishop Cornu: "We have some sources that imply that at the very end of this amazing day, Louis takes the crown and effectively with his coterie, they bless a foundation stone that will become the first step in the construction of the Sainte Chapelle of Paris..."

Archbishop Cornu emphasizes Sainte-Chapelle's role as a repository for the Crown and other Passion relics, highlighting its architectural grandeur and rapid construction as a testament to Louis IX's dedication.

The Crown's Endurance Through Turmoil

The episode traces the Crown's survival through periods of political upheaval, including the French Revolution and Napoleon's reign, illustrating its resilience and continued veneration.

[33:04] Shopify Representative: "Buildings in French history."

David Musgrove discusses how the Crown of Thorns was safeguarded during the French Revolution, moved to Notre-Dame Cathedral, and later became integral to France's national heritage.

[35:50] David Musgrove: "And they're brought back around the time of Napoleon's coronation..."

The Notre-Dame Fire and the Relic's Preservation

In a poignant conclusion, the podcast addresses the tragic 2019 Notre-Dame fire and the urgent efforts to protect the Crown of Thorns.

[35:53] Archbishop Cornu: "It was very, very scary... the firefighters ... saved so much."

Archbishop Cornu recounts the harrowing moments during the fire, detailing the firefighters' heroics in locating and safeguarding the Crown amidst chaos.

[37:21] Archbishop Cornu: "But it's about to go back to its home."

The episode underscores the Crown's miraculous survival and its impending return to Notre-Dame, symbolizing hope and continuity amidst destruction.

Conclusion

The episode "Medieval Relic Hunters: The Quest for Notre-Dame's Crown of Thorns" masterfully intertwines historical scholarship with narrative storytelling. Through meticulous research and engaging dialogue, Emily Gerry and David Musgrove illuminate the profound significance of the Crown of Thorns, not only as a religious artifact but also as a symbol of resilience and faith enduring through centuries of upheaval.

Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the Crown's journey—from its fragmented beginnings to its revered status in Paris—and the extraordinary efforts undertaken to preserve it. The episode serves as a testament to the enduring human fascination with relics and their power to inspire, unite, and transcend time.

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