More than four and a half years after a spectacular jewel heist at the Historic Green Vault in Dresden, parts of the stolen jewelry have been returned and are now on display at the Gruenes Gewoelbe museum.

The theft, which occurred on November 25, 2019, is regarded as one of Germany's largest museum robberies, resulting in the loss of 21 unique historical jewelry pieces and damages exceeding one million euros.

In response to the heist, the state of Saxony has invested nearly 10 million euros in security enhancements and increased personnel at the museum to prevent future thefts.

Following the heist, six members of the Remmo clan were arrested in November 2020, with five receiving prison sentences of up to six years and three months for their involvement in the robbery and arson.

Through cooperation between police and judiciary, approximately 90 percent of the stolen treasures have been recovered, including culturally significant pieces like the Polish White Eagle Order breast star.

While many items have been returned, some sustained damage during the robbery and improper storage, but restoration plans are in development pending the conclusion of ongoing criminal investigations.

Starting today, visitors can view the jewels, with extended hours until 8 PM on Thursdays; access requires timed tickets, with 1,000 free tickets available online.

The displayed items include a sun hair ornament, shoe buckles, and a diamond-studded hat ornament, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the original pieces.

Despite the recovery, three prominent pieces, including a nearly 50-carat diamond, remain missing, but officials express hope for their eventual return.

Marion Ackermann, General Director of the State Art Collections, described the public display of the recovered artifacts as a particularly joyous occasion for the community.

Prior to the heist, the biggest threat to the Green Vault was World War II, which had caused significant destruction to the building housing the baroque treasury.

Saxony's Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer expressed gratitude during the presentation of the jewels, emphasizing the significance of their return to the public.