History of the Faculty
November 6, 1806
Establishment of the Seminary in Đakovo
On 6 November 1806, Bishop Antun Mandić founded the Theological Seminary and the Lyceum episcopale in Đakovo, thereby initiating the institutional education of future priests in this part of Croatia. This year marks the beginning of the rich tradition of philosophical-theological studies in Đakovo.
1912 – 1914
Beginning of the Construction of the New Building
The demolition of the old Seminary building began, along with the construction of a new library and seminary building, which was completed in 1914. This building remained the central location of the library’s activities until 2003.
1931
The Theological School Receives Official Status
Through the Apostolic Constitution Deus scientiarum Dominus, the school in Đakovo received the title “School of Theology,” and the program was extended to five years. This strengthened the academic character and recognition of the theological institution.
1970
Renewal of Theological Teaching in the Spirit of the Second Vatican Council
The theological studies in Đakovo began to align with the new ecclesiastical guidelines. Reforms were introduced into the curriculum, emphasizing active student participation and the modernization of teaching.
1974
Preparation of the Statute for the School in Đakovo
The Statute of the Catholic Faculty of Theology in Zagreb was used as the basis for regulating the functioning of the Theological School in Đakovo. This enhanced academic alignment and organizational structure.
1987
The Đakovo School Affiliated with the Catholic Faculty of Theology in Zagreb
On 10 January 1987, the Congregation for Catholic Education confirmed the affiliated status of the Higher Theological School in Đakovo with the Catholic Faculty of Theology in Zagreb, thereby integrating the school into the university network.
1994
Adaptation of the St. Bonaventure Building and the New Name of the School
The building from 1857 (St. Bonaventure) was adapted for the needs of the teaching process. The Theological School was given the name: “Theology in Đakovo – Affiliated Study Program of the Catholic Faculty of Theology in Zagreb.”
1996
Establishment of the Central Diocesan Library
On 15 April 1996, Bishop Ćiril Kos founded the Central Diocesan Library, which integrated valuable historical collections and became the foundation for a future modern scientific library.
Laying of the Foundation Stone for the New Library
On 6 November 1996, Bishop Ćiril Kos blessed the foundation stone for the new library building. This marked the beginning of a new phase in the development of library space and infrastructure.
1997
Beginning of the Construction of the New Library
In June 1997, the construction and furnishing of the new library began, with the aim of providing modern conditions for students and professors, as well as housing the valuable library collection.
February 28, 2000
Adoption of the New Statute
On 28 February 2000, the Statute of Theology in Đakovo came into force, in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Croatia, thereby further regulating the academic and administrative status of the program.
November 7, 2003
Preparations for the Independence of the Faculty
On 7 November 2003, Đakovo-Bosnian Bishop Marin Srakić submitted an official request to the Congregation for Catholic Education in Rome for the establishment of an independent Catholic Faculty of Theology in Đakovo.
2005
Blessing of the New Library
On 10 May 2005, Bishop Marin Srakić blessed the new library building. The new facility includes a reading room, storage areas, and workspaces, and it is still in use today.
Establishment of the Catholic Faculty of Theology
On 4 June 2005, by decree from Rome, the Catholic Faculty of Theology in Đakovo was established as a full member of the Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek. This act marked the culmination of centuries of development of theological education in Đakovo.
Change of the Library’s Name
On 31 December 2005, the library changed its name to the “Central Diocesan and Faculty Library,” highlighting its dual role as both a church and a university institution.