Documents of the Austrian State Archives about the History of Habsburg Diplomatic Relations with Russia: Research Potential

This article considers the formation of archival funds about Austro-Russian relations in late seventeenth century one four departments Austrian State Archives (the Haus-, Hof- und Staatsarchiv Habsburgs). The analysis demonstrates that formed alongside development archive’s structure. sources referred to include documents dedicated foreign policy contacts Habsburg dynasty with Russia century. authors focus on period when, because Ottoman threat, interactions between Vienna and Moscow intensified, which manifested itself active exchange embassies correspondence. reveal main type structure mentioned. collection contains several types historical sources, among single out official letters (der Brief), instructions (die Instruktion) for Viennese representatives sent Moscow, authentications Beglaubigung), decrees, minutes audiences, envoy accounts Gesandtenbericht), reports Bericht) envoys Moscow. characterisation by fund deep research potential sources. despite long numerous military conflicts influenced preservation funds, Hof-, are an institution supranational importance, accumulating heritage Austria Russia. archive department a large array shedding light various aspects diplomatic second half century, making possible comprehensive study makes it necessary consider introducing source base into scholarly circulation.