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History of the Goethe-Institut

Explore the history of the Goethe-Institut and discover surprising, curious, and exciting moments from more than 70 years of cultural and language work worldwide.

A Quick Dip

Out of Germany and into the world

1951-1969

The founding of the Goethe-Institut in 1951 lays the groundwork for the language and cultural institute’s worldwide activities.

Language students in front of the Goethe-Institut Schwäbisch Hall. Photo: Michael Friedel Photo: Michael Friedel

Contemporary art

1970-1988

The social change that accompanies the worldwide student movements also affects the Goethe-Institut, which now takes up more critical positions on socio-political issues.

Advertisement for an exhibition of the German-American artist George Grosz in Turin. © Goethe-Institut Archiv © Goethe-Institut Archiv

New institutes in the Eastern Europe

1989-1997

The fall of the Iron Curtain allows the Goethe-Institut to expand its activities into the countries of Eastern Europe.

The Goethe-Institut Prague. Photo: Bernhard Ludewig Photo: Bernhard Ludewig

Upheaval in the era of terrorism

1998-2007

The events of the 11th of September 2001 have a fundamental impact on the Goethe-Institut’s activities: The attacks in the USA raise the world’s awareness of the importance of intercultural dialogue and understanding.

Exterior wall of the Goethe-Institut in the Mexican capital Mexico City. © Goethe-Institut © Goethe-Institut

Focus on Africa and Digital Transformation

2008-today

Supported by the “Aktion Afrika” initiative launched by the President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the Goethe-Institut is strengthening its cooperation with Africa and opening several new institutes on the neighbouring continent.

Outdoor area of the second Kultursymposium Weimar in 2019. Photo: Jörg Gläscher Photo: Jörg Gläscher

Deeper Dive

Deeper Dive

In profile

Once an exporter of culture, today a global networker: The Goethe-Institut has frequently changed tracks over the course of its history. From ballet in traditional German folk dress in the 1960s to the discourse on postcolonialism of the present day.

Archives

Would you like to view historical materials of the Goethe-Institut? Here you can find an overview of archives with holdings relating to the Goethe-Institut.

For further reading

"The Goethe-Institut. A history from 1951 to today": In her book, Carola Lentz offers a lively insight into the history and work of the Goethe-Institut.

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