Exploring Janus Pannonius in Italian Collections: Research by Bishop György Klimo of Pécs and Historian József Koller

Abstract

An essential aspect of Bishop György Klimo of Pécs's (1751–1777) patronage was his support for the preparation and publication of historical works. He placed special emphasis on documenting the history of his diocese by researching and organizing sources. He assigned this task to his protege, József Koller. The work is completed and the part IV of the eight-volume series focuses on the bishopric of Pécs of the humanist poet Janus Pannonius (1434–1472), delving into both his ecclesiastical role and his literary contributions.
Some of the source materials cited and published in the book originate from Italian libraries and archives. The acquisition of these manuscripts occurred in two phases: initially, research was conducted under Klimo's direction. Following the bishop's passing, József Koller continued the work, gathering additional material with the assistance of Giuseppe Garampi, the Vienna nuncio.
Klimo's extensive network of contacts in Italy played a pivotal role in the research, facilitating the transfer of sources preserved in Italian archives to Pécs. Through the correspondence of Klimo and Koller, we gain insight into the various stages and methodologies employed in the collection of these sources, as well as the complex network of contacts involved. By analyzing previously unknown archival materials and letters, we uncover the process by which Klimo discovered a hidden Janus Pannonius poem in Italian archive, the individuals who assisted him in copying and sending it to Pécs, the significance of Koller's journey to Italy in sourcing materials, and the continuation of the project following the bishop's death.