The Fragner Award is a biennial distinction established in honor of Professor Bert Fragner, one of Austria’s most eminent Iranologists and the founding director of the Institute of Iranian Studies at the Austrian Academy of Sciences. The award was founded with the aim of supporting the development and deepening of Iranian Studies in Austria and other German-speaking countries. It recognizes outstanding books written or translated into German that deepen the understanding of Iranian history, culture, literature, philosophy, and society.

Celebrating academic excellence, intellectual integrity, and cultural dialogue, the Fragner Award highlights the most significant works published in Austria—and beyond—over the past two decades. Through this initiative, the award seeks to encourage researchers, authors, and translators; strengthen the field of Iranian Studies; and introduce exceptional contributions to both specialists and the wider public.

Honoring the legacy of Professor Fragner, this award stands as a bridge between cultures and a tribute to the enduring value of scholarly engagement with Iran. The first cycle of the award, with a one-year delay, was presented in February 2026.