It was one of the oldest state research institutions in the country, operating since the early 20th century.

[1][2] It was announced on 24 January 2022 that on 1 February, the institute would be amalgamated with various agencies into the newly formed Archaeology, Language, and Letters Research Organization.

[3] Puslit Arkenas can trace its origins to the early-20th-century Commissie in Nederlandsch Indie voor Oudheidkundige Onderzoek op Java en Madoera, founded by the Dutch East Indies colonial government on 18 May 1901 through Government Decree No.

The commission, led by Jan Laurens Andries Brandes [id], was tasked with cataloging and researching archaeological findings and traditional architecture scattered across Java and the Madura islands.

The foundation date of the Dienst became celebrated as Hari Purbakala Nasional (English: national prehistoric day).