What if I told you that the Department of East European History here in Vienna holds secrets dating back to a clandestine book rescue? This department is more than just classrooms and offices. It is a living testament to Vienna’s unique position in understanding Eastern Europe.
Established in 1907, the Department of East European History at the University of Vienna has a rich past. Its origins trace back to Franz de Paula Prince of Liechtenstein. The prince recognized the need for deeper knowledge of the relations between empires. His vision led to the creation of this very department.
In 1906, a remarkable event unfolded. One hundred and nine wooden crates, filled with about 10000 books, began their journey from St. Petersburg to Vienna. These were no ordinary books. They were “forbidden books,” likely to face severe censorship. Thanks to the Prince of Liechtenstein’s initiative, these books became the foundation of the department’s library.
The collection came from Russian historian Vasilij Alekseevič Bilbasov. This valuable resource made the Department of East European History a unique institution. It became a hub for research on Eastern European history. The department’s mission was clear. It would systematically analyze relations between empires. It would then provide insights to academia, the public, diplomats, and even the military to prevent conflicts.
The department’s name has evolved over the years. It was initially the “Seminar for East European History”. Later it became the “Department of Eastern European History”. These changes reflect the shifting focus of Eastern European studies. Despite these changes, the department has always maintained a strong focus on Russia and Poland.
The Department of East European History is the second oldest of its kind in the German-speaking world. It is now the only one that covers the entire breadth and depth of Eastern European history. The department has expanded its scope. It now includes professorships in Slavic Philology, Eastern Central Europe, and Southeastern European History. The department also studies the societies and cultures of remembrance in Eastern Europe.
Today, the Department of East European History remains a priority at the University of Vienna. Nineteen staff members work here. The department also collaborates with the Research Cluster for the Study of East Central Europe and the History of Transformations. This collaboration fosters interdisciplinary research and teaching. Students from various fields like Slavonic Studies and Political Science participate in the department’s courses.
The Department of East European History celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2007 with a grand reception at the Palais Liechtenstein. Prince Hans Adam II attended the event. In 2018, the department marked its 111th anniversary with a themed week. It was organized together with the Department of Slavonic Studies.
So as you stand here, remember the journey of those 109 crates. Remember the vision of Prince Franz de Paula von und zu Liechtenstein. The Department of East European History continues to play a crucial role in understanding the complexities of Eastern Europe.