Savoy family demands return of Crown Jewels from Italian state

The House of Savoy is renewing its claim for the return of the Crown Jewels, a collection of pearls, diamonds, bracelets, a diadem, a choker, and brooches of inestimable value, held in a Bank of Italy vault since June 5, 1946. The jewels were handed over by Umberto II, the last king of Italy, three days after the referendum that abolished the monarchy. The Savoy family argues these are personal property, not Crown assets, citing an ambiguous handover document stating the items should be held "at the disposal of whoever has the right." After failed mediation attempts, heirs Vittorio Emanuele, Maria Gabriella, Maria Pia, and Maria Beatrice, represented by lawyer Sergio Orlandi, plan to sue the Italian state and may appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. Emanuele Filiberto, son of Vittorio Emanuele, stated the family is united in this battle, noting that similar restitutions have occurred for former royal families of Yugoslavia and Bulgaria. The Italian state has consistently rejected the claim, maintaining the jewels are Crown property under the Albertine Statute. If returned, the family has not decided on public display but emphasizes the jewels should see the light after 75 years in a vault.