German Archaeological Institute (DAI)

The mission of the German Archaeological Institute (DAI) is to conduct and facilitate research worldwide in the archaeological sciences and classical studies. Through its research projects the DAI creates an important foundation for dialogue between cultures, for international scientific collaboration and for the preservation of cultural heritage. The DAI is active on five continents in over 350 projects. The projects range from the sanctuary of Olympia, the pyramids of Dashur in Egypt, the imperial palaces on the Palatine in Rome and the 12,000 year old cult site of Göbekli Tepe in Turkey to the oases of the Arabian Peninsula. In addition ancient cultures are being investigated in the Andes of Peru, in the western desert of China, on the Solomon Islands in the West Pacific and Easter Island.

So the remains of ancient civilizations can be successfully safeguarded in the long term, careful work is needed in the prevention, monitoring and documentation of archaeological sites. Against the background of a growing historical consciousness such sites are key to the formation of cultural identity in the host and partner countries of the DAI. As such the Institute's work makes a substantial contribution to stable political and cultural ties.