AUDIOTHEKA.ORG

Audiotheka: The Living Sound Archive of Berlin
Audiotheka is a sound map of Berlin that captures the stories and sounds of its neighborhoods, with an initial focus on the Pankow district, particularly Buch and Karow. This participatory format creates archives developed by local residents in collaboration with professional sound artists. Through this initiative, we explore how the territory sounds, which voices emerge as protagonists, and which stories demand to be told. Audiotheka is a living archive documenting the cultural and linguistic diversity of Berlin. Each recording connects listeners with local experiences and highlights the voices that shape the identity of each neighborhood.

A Collective Process
The development of Audiotheka involves participatory meetings with people of all ages. In these gatherings, residents decide how to represent their district, sharing their perspectives and strengthening their sense of community. Audiotheka also emphasizes the richness of languages and accents present in Berlin.

Public Space Formats: To make this project visible, accessible, and immersive formats have been developed:

AUDIOTHEKA MOBIL, a traveling module with a screen, headphones, and informational material, designed to bring Audiotheka to more people through the libraries of the Pankow district.

AUDIOTHEKA RAUM, a sensory installation where visitors can enter an inflatable room to listen to recordings and view images of the activities.

Conservation and Future >> In 2023, the AUDIOTHEKA MOBIL was handed over to the Pankow library in Buch, which is responsible for its preservation and public accessibility. This living archive continues to grow, aiming to strengthen the connections among Berlin’s communities. Audiotheka has also been translated into German Sign Language (DGS) videos, ensuring full participation for individuals with hearing disabilities.

Explore Audiotheka >>> Visit audiotheka.org to explore the sound map and discover Berlin’s stories.