Made up of 9 partner universities across Europe, CHARM-EU brings together diverse cultures, histories, languages, cultures and perspectives. This interactive exhibition curated by Márk Vrabély (ELTE University Library and Archives) provides some curious insights into the rich history of CHARM-EU partner institutions and their cities. The virtual exhibition includes a selection of library treasures at the ELTE University Library and Archives linked to the history of the nine CHARM-EU partner institutions.
CHARM-EU connects three universities founded in the Middle Ages: the University of Montpellier (established in 1289), the University of Würzburg (1402), and the University of Barcelona (1450). The rich historical background of these universities as pioneers of European education and research, enhances innovation and collaboration across borders in higher education.
Early modern universities founded at the end of the 16th and the beginning of the 17th centuries such as Trinity College Dublin (1592), Eötvös Loránd University (1635), and Utrecht University (1636) as centres of learning as well as hubs of intellectual collaboration and innovation played a crucial role in shaping the academic landscape and intellectual culture we recognize today.
Modern universities founded in the 20th and the 21st centuries such as Åbo Akademi University (1918), the University of Bergen (1946, with earlier roots), and Hochschule Ruhr West (2009), have played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary academic and research landscapes. Due to the emphasis on research and development, commitment to innovation, and dedication to diverse educational environments they play a crucial role European higher education.
This virtual exhibition includes a selection of library treasures from the nine institutions of CHARM-EU. The original exhibition was open in the Library between 21 September 2024 and 31 March 2025, and also featured in our Cultural Festival 2024. The books used for creating and curating the exhibition are all the property of the University Library and Archives and freely accessible in the repository of ELTE.
Source/author of illustration: ELTE University Library and Archives, curated by Márk Vrabély
