Germany is characterized by one of the most diverse cultural landscapes in Europe. However, publicly funded cultural offerings often reach only a small, usually highly educated and financially well-off segment of society. How can cultural institutions be transformed into places of encounter for people from different backgrounds, environments, generations, and cultural and aesthetic preferences? This volume provides an overview of empirical findings on cultural participation and interests of various population groups, as well as results regarding the effects and limitations of audience development, new approaches to cultural mediation, and strategies for the cultural realignment of a city or region through cultural community building and participatory cultural development planning. Contributions by Vera Allmanritter, Esther Bishop, Lea Fink, and Alber.