Schatzkammer

Lonely Planet review

The Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury) is among the best of its kind in Europe. Containing secular and ecclesiastical treasures of priceless value and splendour, the sheer wealth exhibited in the collection of crown jewels is staggering: Room 7 alone has a 2860-carat Colombian emerald, a 416-carat balas ruby and a 492-carat aquamarine, probably enough to wipe the debt of a third-world country.

Room 11 holds the highlight of the Treasury, the imperial crown. Dating from the 10th century, it has eight gold plates and precious gems alternating with enamel plaques showing religious scenes.

The Sacred Treasury almost outshines the rest of the museum, with its collection of rare and hard to believe religious relics. Fragments of the True Cross, one of the nails from the Crucifixion, a thorn from Christ's crown and a piece of tablecloth from the Last Supper all vie for your attention - and belief. There are also some rather more worldly artefacts on display, like the extremely elaborate Column of the Virgin Mary made from gilded silver, which stands over 1m tall and is encased with 3700 precious stones - a modest conversation piece fit for any mantelpiece.

An audio guide is included in the price and the Schatzkammer is part of the Gold, Silver and Bronze discount tickets . Allow anything from 30 minutes to two hours to get around.