Parzinger retires: What is the SPK?

Parzinger retires: What is the SPK?

Berlin, Deutschland - On May 27, 2025, an important chapter in the history of the Prussian Cultural Ownership (SPK) Foundation is completed. Hermann Parzinger, President of the Foundation since 2008, retired after 17 years. During his tenure, Parzinger was responsible for 21 museums, the State Library, the State Archives and two research institutes in Berlin. His withdrawal not only raises the question of his successor, but also addresses the challenges for the cultural institutions of Germany.

Marion Ackermann will succeed Parzinger from June 2025. During his time at the SPK, outstanding projects such as the Humboldt Forum and the return of predatory art were realized. Under his leadership, a comprehensive reform was also initiated, which should result in decentralization of the foundation, with the aim of creating 25 autonomous units. These changes could be crucial for the future structure and financing of the cultural institutions, especially in view of the worrying financial situation that Parzinger has criticized.

financial challenges and return of predatory art

Parzinger expressed concern about the need for renovation work that affects the old museum, among other things. A positive turn brings the planned increase in the annual budget of the SPK by 12 million euros from 2026, which serves the goal of strengthening the museum teams and expanding the digital presence. This could also be important in the context of the return of predatory art, which has become more important since the Benin Bronzen in Berlin. This return marks a turning point in the debate about predatory art and is part of a broader discussion about the morality of collections in German museums, which are traditionally shaped by colonial and war -related appropriations.

In Germany, a distinction is often made between predatory art, which has been illegally and violently procured, and prey art, which was acquired due to the war. Dealing with these questions is complex and often accompanied by political and social discussions. Critics warn that refusal to return predatory art has not only legal but also ethical implications that can hinder cultural communication between different peoples. Provenance researchers are working on identifying the descendants of lawful owners and promoting return processes.

the legacy of Hermann Parzinger

With the upcoming change of leadership and the challenges that the return of predatory art and reforms bring with it, the Prussian cultural property foundation is at an important turning point. The course for the future development of German cultural institutions is set, and it remains to be seen how these changes will shape the cultural landscape in Germany.

All information about Hermann Parzinger's resignation and his success can also be found on RBB24. Further details on his biography are available on the website of the Foundation of Prussian Cultural Ownership. For a comprehensive overview of the topic of predatory art, the content of National Geographic about the challenges of the restitution in Germany.