Thomas Werner

Thomas Werner is a Professor of Iberian and Iberoamerican History at the University of Leuven (since 2016), previously serving as Associate (2011–2016) and Assistant Professor (2004–2011). He is an Ordinary Member of the Academy of Europe (elected 2019) and resides in Belgium. His research focuses on the Spanish Empire’s religious policies, cultural exchanges, and the role of the Southern Netherlands in early modern globalization.

Research Interests:

• Court studies of the Archdukes Albert and Isabella (1598–1633)
• Inquisition and religious intolerance in the Spanish Empire (1500–1800)
• Circulation of knowledge, art, and goods between the Southern Netherlands and Iberian empires
• Contribution of Flemish print culture to Spanish colonial projects

Key Projects:

• 2016–2020: Knowledge diffusion in indigenous languages of the New World
• 2013–2017: Hispano-Flemish elites and transregional identities
• 2010–2014: Southern Netherlands’ role as a global knowledge hub

Awards:

• 2005 Etienne Sabbe Foundation Award for In de klauwen van de Inquisitie
• 1991 Royal Flemish Academy Laureate

Grants & Advising: Led major research initiatives on colonial knowledge networks and Habsburg diplomacy. No formal advisee list is provided in current texts.

Affiliations:

• Member, Academy of Europe (Section: History & Archaeology)
• Main professional base: KU Leuven