The high degree of comprehensibility between the signed languages in Trieste (present day Italy) and Austria is very probably due to their joint history of deaf schools within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Investigation undertaken in archives in Trieste and Klagenfurt have revealed interesting similarities in the education of deaf children there since the mid 19th century which could explain present day affinities. General background information is provided regarding sign language in Italy and Austria, before detailed description of schools and teaching methodologies which are the probable source of a historical connection.
