A remarkable brass ring, estimated to be from the 15th or 16th centuries, was recently unearthed at Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow, Poland, in May 2025. The discovery occurred during renovation work on the Bastion of Władysław IV, a historically significant site within the castle complex.
Local archaeologist Konrad Jurkowski found the ring while sifting through rubble inside the monument's pedestal. The signet ring features an oval shield with a symbol, potentially a craftsman's mark, visible on a German-type heraldic shield. The letters "IC" are also visible on the ring, possibly initials.
Castle officials have indicated that the ring will undergo further study following the completion of archaeological work on the Bastion of Władysław IV. Wawel Royal Castle describes itself as "the most historically and culturally important site in Poland." The discovery contributes to the ongoing understanding of the castle's rich history and the artifacts it holds.