Instead of victory reports

The contemporaries of the last ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Charles of Habsburg-Lorraine (1887–1922), judged him by a wide range of opinions. His reign was as turbulent as it was short (1916–1918): in the midst of an inhumane war, nationalist aspirations, social and political turmoil and a crisis of values, he had to shoulder what he saw as his God-given responsibility for the welfare of his people. He sought to steer his country from the ruthlessness of war to a peaceful harbour between loyal supporters and hateful foes.

Emperor and King Charles’s first-born son, Otto, was profoundly influenced by the faith and values of his parents. The death of his father and the memories surrounding it proved indelible, and he reflected on these experiences throughout his life. On the 50th anniversary of his father’s passing, he wrote:

“When my father died, I was nine years old. I had a deep bond with him from early childhood, and he had talked to me frequently, especially over the final few weeks in Madeira. In that way, I had at least gained a childlike insight into a life that was so full of defeats and disappointments as few others and which could be considered a failure from a human point of view. He wanted peace and had to wage a war. He sought unity and had to witness the destruction of the multi-ethnic empire from a position of authority. Many of his friends turned their backs on him, even betrayed him.

Nevertheless, the three hours I spent in the death chamber of the Quinta do Monte revealed to me that my father’s life was by no means an unhappy one. When I saw him on his last day – in the hour of truth, as the Spaniards call it – I knew his life was successful. When faced with death, there is no self-deception. One remains alone, and earthly merits no longer matter. When a man gets into the presence of his Creator, in front of Him, all that matters is the fulfilment of duties and goodwill. God does not ask people to bring Him reports of victories. He grants the success. He only expects us to give our utmost.” (Die Furche, 6 April 1972)

The Otto von Habsburg Foundation pays tribute to its eponym’s father with this memorial exhibition, which will open in the Mindszentyneum in Zalaegerszeg on 29 October 2024. With documents, photographs and artefacts from its collection, the Foundation is presenting the life of the monarch, who was beatified twenty years ago, a life which, although it may have seemingly been a failure in human terms, today serves as an example: the pursuit of eternal values and the responsibility before God can stand as a beacon of light in human relations.

Zsolt Semjén, Deputy Prime Minister of Hungary, will open the exhibition.

The Little Saint Teresa Carmelite Basilica Choir will accompany the opening ceremony.

Eszter Fábry, archivist of the Otto von Habsburg Foundation and curator of the exhibition, will hold a guided tour.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Meghívó A5 v2