The Goldene Europa award is the oldest German Television award for artists and entertainers. It was awarded from 1968 to 2003. In the years 1989 and 2001, there were no ceremonies. Since 1981, the gala was broadcast on television.
The original sculpture award for the "Goldene Europa" from 1968 is the work of sculptor Herbert Strässer.
The award was originally designed with the aim of launching the careers of German artists and producers with their music facing strong competition from the United States and United Kingdom. Therefore, in the early years only German-language hits were awarded. From 1979, the leadership decided to allow foreign artists to win the Goldene Europa reward. In later years, the Goldene Europa was also awarded in other areas such as comedy, entertainment, politics, sports or drama.