The Académie Royale de Danse, established in 1661 in France, is one of the oldest dance institutions in the world. It was founded by King Louis XIV to promote and formalize the art of dance, particularly ballet. The academy played a crucial role in developing dance techniques and training dancers, influencing the evolution of ballet as a respected art form. In 1681, the Académie Royale de Danse became associated with the Paris Opera, further solidifying its importance in the dance community. The institution has contributed significantly to the training of many renowned dancers and choreographers, helping to shape the future of ballet and dance education globally.