The biggest Bible in the world, known as the Codex Gigas, is located in the Swedish Royal Library (Kungliga Biblioteket) in Stockholm, Sweden.
Discovering the Mammoth Manuscript: The Codex Gigas
Often referred to as the "Devil's Bible" due to its distinctive full-page illustration of the Devil, the Codex Gigas is not only the largest known medieval manuscript but also holds the title of the biggest Bible in the world. Its sheer size and intriguing history make it a subject of enduring fascination.
A Legacy of Immense Scale
The Codex Gigas is an extraordinary work, meticulously crafted in a Benedictine monastery in Bohemia (present-day Czech Republic) during the early 13th century. Its creation is believed to be the work of a single scribe, a monumental undertaking that likely took decades to complete.
The manuscript's impressive physical attributes are what truly set it apart:
- Height: Approximately 92 cm (36 inches)
- Width: Approximately 50 cm (20 inches)
- Thickness: About 22 cm (8.7 inches)
- Weight: A staggering 74.8 kg (165 pounds)
- Pages: It contains 310 leaves (620 pages) of vellum, made from the hides of an estimated 160 donkeys or calves.
Journey to Stockholm
The Codex Gigas has a rich and dramatic history, having moved through various collections over the centuries. Originally housed in the Benedictine monastery of Podlažice, it later found its way to other monastic institutions and eventually into the possession of Emperor Rudolf II in Prague.
Its journey to Sweden occurred during the Thirty Years' War. In 1648, as part of the spoils of war, the Swedish army took the manuscript from Prague. Since 1649, this monumental treasure has been a permanent fixture in the collection of the Swedish Royal Library in Stockholm, where it continues to be preserved and studied.
What Makes It So Unique?
Beyond its colossal size, the Codex Gigas is noteworthy for its comprehensive content and artistic elements:
- Complete Latin Vulgate Bible: It contains the entire Latin translation of the Bible.
- Historical and Medical Texts: Alongside the biblical texts, it includes works like Cosmas of Prague's Chronica Boemorum (a history of Bohemia), medical treatises, ancient incantations, and even an encyclopedia.
- Devil's Portrait: The most iconic feature is the full-page depiction of the Devil, alongside a corresponding full-page illustration of the City of Man.
Here's a quick overview of key facts about the Codex Gigas:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current Location | Swedish Royal Library, Stockholm, Sweden |
| Acquired by Sweden | 1648 (kept in Stockholm since 1649) |
| Nickname | The Devil's Bible |
| Approx. Weight | 74.8 kg (165 lbs) |
| Approx. Height | 92 cm (36 inches) |
| Origin | Benedictine monastery in Bohemia (13th Century) |
| Notable Content | Latin Vulgate Bible, Devil's illustration |
Why Visit the Swedish Royal Library?
The Swedish Royal Library not only houses this unparalleled manuscript but also offers a glimpse into Sweden's rich cultural and historical heritage. While the Codex Gigas is not always on public display due to preservation concerns, it is occasionally featured in exhibitions, and digital versions are often accessible online, allowing a global audience to explore its pages. Its presence in Stockholm underscores the city's role as a guardian of significant historical artifacts.
