German-American Community Office

Relations between Kaiserslautern and the United States have roots that reach back far into the past. From the 17th to the 20th century, many emigrants left their hometown of Kaiserslautern because of a poor economic situation or political persecution. Many of them found work, protection and freedom in the United States.

After the Second World War, from 1950 to 1955, Kaiserslautern became the largest US military community outside the United States. It was even given its own nickname, "K-Town ", which was used by the Americans as a synonym for Kaiserslautern. Around 51,631 (as of 2014) US citizens and nationals live in the City and surrounding district. Kaiserslautern has active twinning links with Columbia (South Carolina) and Davenport (Iowa).

To promote the coexistence of Germans and Americans, the first German-American Community Office was established in the city center at Lauterstraße 2 (Rathaus Nord) in February 2003.

It is here that you will find the Atlantische Akademie Rheinland-Pfalz e.V.. This cultural institute was founded in 1995 by the State of Rhineland-Palatinate, in order to raise awareness of the links between the European and North American nations through lectures, events and seminars. This institute also runs an American library, which is open to the public.