The statue of Pontius Pilate, dating back to the late 17th or early 18th century, was stolen from the chapel in Římov in May 2009. It is a polychrome wooden carving that stands 180 cm tall, depicting Pilate in Roman legion armor. Last autumn, the original statue was put up for auction in Spain, having been resold multiple times among private collections across Europe before being tracked down by police.

The Czech National Heritage Institute expressed gratitude for the recovery of this significant statue, emphasizing its importance as part of the pilgrimage path in Římov. Eva Löw, head of the movable heritage department, stated that the return of the statue is a crucial step in preserving and protecting the cultural heritage of the Czech Republic. The statue is reportedly in good condition and likely restored; it is scheduled to return to Římov by Easter but will be displayed in the Pilgrimage Museum instead of the original chapel, which will house a replica.

This recovery highlights not only the ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage but also the challenges posed by art theft and the illicit art market. The significance of the statue extends beyond its artistic value, as it plays a key role in the historical narrative of the region, making its return home a matter of pride for both local citizens and the Czech cultural authorities.