BBC News Online: World: Europe

Possible Stradivarius found on Polish border

Polish border guards checking a train entering Germany have found a hidden violin which officials say could be an eighteenth-century Stradivarius.

A spokesman said the border guards were inspecting ceiling panels in a compartment of a Berlin-bound train for contraband cigarettes or alcohol when they came upon the violin, which he said could be either an original Stradivarius or an excellent copy.

The spokesman said that if its authenticity is confirmed, it would be the only Stradivarius in Poland.

He said it was too early to offer any theories on the origin of the violin and no one has so far been detained in connection with the matter.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service