The National Archives of Hungary (Budapest, 2006)

Recommendation of the President of the Hungarian Republic

and preserved important knowledge as common property. Later these essential duties were taken over by the archives. These institutions already use opportunities provided by modern technology to preserve valuable documents in their original forms. Archives not only reflect history through preserved documents but also reflect their own history. The Hungarian archives bear the marks of the horrendous disasters that came upon the country during the 20

th century for which many buildings and collections were destroyed. Nevertheless, we can proudly state that Hungarian archivists did their best to save archival material and maintain them. It is due to them that these recorded messages of olden times are readable and available even today. It is thanks to skilled and conscientious archivists that this essential part of our national remembrance and common cultural heritage is accessible even now. Everything to be found in this book and in the Hungarian archives is an indispensable resource not only for us, but to our region and for European history as well. Therefore, I cordially recommend this volume of exceptional value which contains abundant information outlining the life and main lines of history of our region. August 2004., Budapest Ferenc Mádl President of the Republic of Hungary