Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Medieval History and Regional History

Research

The unit for Medieval History and Regional History was established in 2003 in cooperation with the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences and Humanities (BBAW). It serves to meld university curriculum with BBAW research projects and advance the core Humboldtian vision – balanced unity
between teaching and research.


Our three main areas of focus:

  •  We are dedicated to the general study of Medieval History – particular attention is given to the High and Late Middle Ages. Curriculum also covers imperial, national (Roman Europe) and dynastic history as well as the history of European religious orders and the history of science.
  • We investigate the regional history of Brandenburg during the Middle Ages. Before the modern era Brandenburg was an independent historical entity – the successive era of Prussian rule is taught in the unit of Prussian History. We also address dynastic and religious issues of medieval Brandenburg.
  • We seek to connect the department with ongoing BBAW research projects. Our unit cultivates institutional affiliation within BBAW’s research project „MGH-Constitutiones“ (Monumenta Germaniae Historica) – where select records of Charles IV and Ludwig of Bavaria are editted.

Parallel to its affiliation with MGH, our faculty maintains personal ties with the project
„Regesta Imperii“ – a collection of primary source material adminstered by the Mainz
Academy of Sciences and Literature (headquartered in Munich). Students of Medieval History and Regional History will also be educated on the principals of basic historical research, which play a pivotal role in the unit’s affairs. Project staff members work to ensure research content is closely aligned with department curriculum and coordinate events at both the Humboldt Universität zu Berlin as well as the Ludwig-Maximilians-
Universität in Munich. On a wider scale, the work of the Medieval History and Regional History unit serves to anchor the department within prominent long-term research projects, where students may also seek internships. Whether you are a student pursuing your Bachelor's in Medieval Studies, Regional History or General Studies or are a graduate pursuing your advanced degree, the Medieval History and Regional History unit will provide you with a well-rounded education.