Kircher: Iter Exstaticum Coeleste (1660)

amidst the surrounding dangers of new wars, with a noble daring and a liberality worthy of so great a Prince, you have brought the Aristotelian Lyceum—that is, the whole of PHILOSOPHY—into your city of Fulda, and have established it with a perpetual endowment in the Buchonian The "Buchonian Athenaeum" refers to the Jesuit Gymnasium or university in Fulda, located in the ancient Buchonia region. Academy, the Gymnasium of our Society. For what is Philosophy, if not the study of Wisdom—that is, of things divine and human? What among all things, to the investigation of which that study extends, is more excellent than Heaven, or more worthy of being known? Therefore, you have restored the contemplation of Heaven to your Fulda—where once it flourished to the point of miracle among the followers of Rabanus Rabanus Maurus (c. 780–856), the famous Carolingian scholar and Abbot of Fulda known as the "Teacher of Germany." and other most learned pupils of Saint Benedict—by bringing back the study of Philosophy.

Wherefore, I deservedly bring my gift, my "Heaven," The author is likely referring to a book or astronomical work titled "Coelum" (Heaven). to you, MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE, because it led me to you as if by its own right. My own most devoted will also led me, which I transcribed entirely to you when you recently received me, having been summoned with such incredible kindness, and when you promoted my studies with such distinguished generosity. Receive therefore, MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE, this memorial of a grateful soul, small indeed in its bulk,