Syriac and Salzburg? What is the link?

Syriac studies began with Moses of Mardin visiting Vienna in 1555.  While he was in Vienna, he taught Syriac to Western scholars and had the first Syriac Bible printed. Salzburg equally has a history of scholarship in eastern Christianity. Since the 1850’s scholars at Salzburg University have worked on Syriac and Oriental Christianity. Additionally a number of institutions connected with eastern Christianity have made their home in Salzburg and these include Pro Oriente, ZECO and most recently the Syriac Institute.

Now the university of Salzburg offers an MA in Syriac Theology, Beth Suryoye international student house offers the chance to be part of a living Syriac and ecumenical community, and the Syriac Institute supports academics and students interested in Syriac.