Welcome to the Academy of Arts (Akademie der Künste) in Berlin, Germany, a historic state arts institution dedicated to promoting the arts while advising and supporting the German states. Tracing its roots back to 1696 when Elector Frederick III of Brandenburg founded its predecessor, it stands as Europe's third-oldest such academy. Over the centuries, it served as a learned society, an arts council, and a training school.
Today's institution, established on October 1, 1993, reunites the formerly separate East and West Berlin academies following Germany's reunification. Located at its historical site on Pariser Platz, the academy is a fascinating stop for culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a rich legacy that survived centuries of change, including relocation from Unter den Linden to Palais Arnim, seizure by Albert Speer in 1938, and a division into parallel eastern and western organizations during the Cold War.
Art lovers can discover prestigious historical collections, such as the Otto Dix Foundation estate made public in 2024, featuring 4,000 index cards of his works, around 300 letters, exhibition catalogues, and even his original paintbox. The academy also honors creative excellence through distinguished accolades like the Käthe Kollwitz Prize and Heinrich Mann Prize.
What to see at Academy of Arts, Berlin
- Explore the historic Pariser Platz location next to Hotel Adlon
- View the Otto Dix Foundation estate containing letters, catalogues, and his paintbox
- Learn about Europe's third-oldest academy, founded in 1696
- Discover how the East and West Berlin academies merged on October 1, 1993
- Discover prestigious honours awarded here, including the Käthe Kollwitz Prize
Visiting tips
Examine the Otto Dix Foundation estate to see unique archival items, including the artist's personal paintbox and hundreds of original letters.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Academy of Arts, Berlin is easy to reach on Berlin’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Zoological Garden. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Berlin travel guide.
See the full Berlin travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.