Sigismund von Herberstein

Siegmund (Sigismund) Freiherr von Herberstein, (or Baron Sigismund von Herberstein), (b.August 23, 1486 - March 28, 1566), Austrian diplomat, writer and historian. He was most noted for his extensive writing on the geography, history and customs of Russia and contributed greatly to early Western European knowledge of that area.

Early Life

Herberstein was born in 1486 in Vipava (German Wippach) in the region of Carniola, South Austria (now Slovenia) to Leonhard von Herberstein and Barbara von Lueg, members of the prominent German family which had already resided in Herberstein Castle for nearly 200 years. Little is known of his early life apart from the fact that he became familiar with the Slovene language spoken in the region. This knowledge became significant later in his life.

Related Topics:
Vipava - German - Carniola - Slovenia - Slovene

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In 1499 he entered the University of Vienna to study philosophy and law. In 1506 he entered the army as an officer and served in a number of campaigns. In 1508 he was knighted by the Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor personally. In 1515 he entered the Imperial council, or Parliament, and began a long and illustrious diplomatic career.

Related Topics:
1499 - University of Vienna - 1506 - 1508 - Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor - 1515

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