Representation

Since its founding in 1365, the University of Vienna has developed a wide variety of symbols and rituals, which represented the university as a community of interests to the outside world: Besides the founding document and other rules of academic life (such as the register and statutes or the election of rectors and other university dignitaries) there were symbols such as seals, sceptres, and clothing, which strengthened the sense of community in the universitas, especially in their external representation.