The Kunsthistorisches Institut in Florenz understands itself as a laboratory of basic research in art history in dialogue with other disciplines. Founded in 1897, it has been an institute of the Max Planck Society since 2002. Its research is dedicated to the histories of art and architecture in a transcultural and global perspective, with a focus on Italy, Europe and the Mediterranean. A prime concern of projects and collaborations is to combine historical research with a critical engagement in current debates and challenges, such as ecology, heritage, urbanization, migration and diversity; aesthetic and artistic practices; media and material cultures; the digital transformation and the future of museums. The institute is particularly committed to supporting young scholars, while its renowned library and Photothek are open to the international community of researchers.
