We are sad to announce that Professor František Šmahel, the founder and first director of the Centre for Medieval Studies in Prague, died on 5 January 2025 at the age of 90. We have lost an esteemed teacher and colleague who inspired us and many others for many years. International historiography owes him some of the most important works on late medieval history, culture and thought, and the Centre for Medieval Studies is indebted to him for its interdisciplinary profile, emphasis on supporting young scholars, and the friendly environment that we try to maintain. His academic brilliance, unassuming manner and fine sense of humour will be greatly missed.