Page:Historical paintings of the Slavic nations by Alfons Mucha (1921).pdf/19



ROM ancient times the Eastern Germany of to-day, to the very Tedge of the Baltic sea and even to its islands, was populated by Slavs, and their advanced culture was justly recognized by the rest of Europe. The branch which had the greatest fame was the branch of the Rans who dwelt in the Island of Rujana, whose capital was the rich city of Arkuna. In this city was the famous Cathedral of Svantovít, whose artistic beauty aroused the admiration of foreigners visiting there from the land of the Franks, Spain, and even from Byzantium. Visitors from the entire world of that day came to Arkuna, not only to transact business, but also, as with the Greek Delphians, in order to ask of the world-famous priests of Svantovít advice and revelations concerning the things of the future. Once a year, after the harvests, Arkuna was filled with song, and the shore land along the chalk cliffs resounded with joyful celebrations in honour of the god Svantovít. This celebration had taken place annually from time out of mind until the end of the thirteenth century, when the Germanic Danes sailed hither, conquered Arkuna, and destroyed the chapel of Svantovít.

In the picture we see how the Teutonic Thor with his wolves has overwhelmed the cortège of Svantovít. His last warrior is dying on the sacred white steed. Svantovít is at his side and takes from his failing right hand the holy sword, and from that time on he gives