The German Literature Archive was founded in 1955 to mark the 150th anniversary of the death of Friedrich Schiller. Affiliated with the National Schiller Museum, the Archive is now a national institution of international importance.

A treasure trove for literature fans
Although it has been housed in its own building since 1972, the German Literature Archive is part of the National Schiller Museum. From afar, the buildings form an impressive ensemble perched high above the Neckar. But it is only once you have passed through the doors that the true magnificence of the Literature Archive becomes apparent. The library and research centre for Modern German Literature – from 1750 to the present day - possesses an outstanding collection and a very agreeable working atmosphere. From sensitive literature fan to meticulous publisher – all will find their hearts' desire in Marbach.

The collections of the "treasure trove of German literature" are based around the literary estates of important authors and publishers. The basement stacks contain around 700,000 volumes, including numerous complete collections of authors and collectors. The archive also contains works which are rare, and even more rarely accessible. The manuscripts section is particularly fascinating, with its 1,100 legacies from writers and scholars such as Mörike, Benn, Celan and Döblin. 22,000 archive boxes contain around 7,300 shelf metres of works, the legacy of German authors.

A selection of other literature museums in Germany.