Why a medieval cluster?
Knowledge of the Norwegian and European Middle Ages is central to understanding how knowledge, culture, cities, democracy and human dignity emerged. Medieval history is an important part of the identity of Bergen, Western Norway and Norway.
The cluster builds on the university's strong research communities and further develops contact with external regional partners, such as schools, museums and the tourism industry.
The cluster works to be a driving force for local and national communication about the Middle Ages, spanning history, philology, archaeology and literature.
Vision and goals 2025–2030
Through pioneering collaboration locally and internationally, the Medieval Cluster will create new knowledge at the research frontier, contribute to future understanding of our older history, and highlight the value of medieval cultural heritage. For the period 2025–2030 the cluster is working towards four goals:
- Network – create collaboration, be a unifying body and strengthen networks of academic institutions with expertise in the medieval field. The cluster partnership shall strengthen the ties between education and working life.
- Research collaboration – strengthen and develop innovative and interdisciplinary research at a high international level, and contribute to knowledge exchange.
- Interdisciplinarity – maintain and further develop interdisciplinary collaboration between disciplines, sectors and institutions working on research, management and communication of the Middle Ages.
- Visibility – strengthen and develop innovative communication of medieval research to different target groups in society, including schools, and highlight the value of medieval heritage sites.