Continue to content

About the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage (KIK-IRPA)

The Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage ("Koninklijk Instituut voor het Kunstpatrimonium ‒ KIK" in Dutch and "Institut royal du Patrimoine artistique ‒ IRPA" in French) is a federal non-profit institution that takes care of Belgium's heritage: art, monuments and items of historical value. These unique and irreplaceable creations embody our shared history and contribute to our identity as a society. That is why we believe that art generates the emotion that binds us all together.

Researching, preserving and unlocking our heritage

To preserve art and heritage for future generations, we commit ourselves to the highest standards of research and conservation-restoration. This ambition is only possible through a synergy between the diverse disciplines. The Institute brings together art historians, photographers, chemists, physicists, conservators-restorers, experts in image creation, engineers, geologists, etc. Our research gains relevance by bringing together their findings from different angles. In addition, we ensure the transmission of knowledge about works of art, cultural heritage and the technologies of conservation and restoration.

The art of heritage: a unique model for the very best care

The functioning of our Institute is based on six pillars, which together create a special added value for our heritage:

  • Interdisciplinarity
  • Expertise
  • High-tech
  • Broad collaboration
  • Documentation
  • Knowledge sharing & education
G002048 gold Web

Annual reports

Please consult our annual reports for a complete overview of our work and activities.

More about the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage

Vacancies and internships

Looking for an exciting challenge in the heritage sector? Check out our vacancies! We also regularly welcome trainees.

More info

Training courses and activities

More info

KIK-IRPA's news

Discover the latest news in the field of Belgian heritage.

More info

Contact and opening hours

More info

75 years of science dedicated to Belgian heritage

In 2023, the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Come and join us for the anniversary celebration of this unique institution in Belgium. Visit KIK-IRPA during the open day on 2 March and expect many surprises!

More info

Stay in touch

Why register?

  • Heritage is alive, and has a lot to tell you
  • Stay informed about the ins and outs of our Belgian art heritage
  • There is more happening within the KIK than you think, in our newsletter we open our doors
  • We invite partners, companies, researchers, restaurateurs, students to enter into a dialogue