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Who We Are

Founded in 1998 as the Canadian Centre for Austrian and Central European Studies, the Institute was created through the initiative of Austria’s Federal Ministry of Science, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Conference of University Presidents, soon gaining the support of the governments of Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia.

In 2003, the Institute was renamed the Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies in recognition of the generous endowment from Dr. Manfred and Dr. Alfred Wirth.

What We Do

Working closely with the University and the embassies of our partner nations, the Wirth Institute supports the º£½ÇÉçÇø’s position as Canada’s leading centre for Central European Studies and a bridge between Canada and Central Europe. 

Why It Matters

Advancing Central European Studies

& Building Global Connections

We promote research, teaching, and cultural exchange focused on Central Europe. We host lectures, conferences, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals that highlight Austrian and Central European scholarship, culture, and creativity. 

Global Network of Austrian Centres

We are proud to be one of nine Austrian Centres worldwide

Together, the Austrian Centres form a global network dedicated to exploring the history, culture, politics, and contemporary developments of Austria and its Central European neighbours through shared projects, annual conventions, and the exchange of scholars and students.