All about us
We keep prices stable and your money safe
Here at the European Central Bank (ECB), we work to keep prices stable in the euro area. We do this so you will be able to buy as much with your money tomorrow as you can today.
We also contribute to the safety and soundness of the European banking system. This helps to ensure that money you put in a bank stays safe.
We do our thing so that you can do yours
We work with national central banks to keep the euro stable and prices steady. We also make sure commercial banks are safe, so the financial system stays strong. By doing this, we help you spend, save or borrow money with confidence.
We keep inflation under control
The ECB is the central bank of the euro area, which comprises European Union countries that have the euro as their currency. Our main task is to maintain price stability. So, whether you’re shopping, travelling or investing in your future, you can count on a strong and stable euro to support your plans.
Find out more about our monetary policyWe contribute to the safety of the banking system
We supervise euro area banks so you can rest assured that they can weather a rainy day. A strong economy means you can plan ahead without worrying about sudden changes. Whether you're putting money aside for a big goal or just for peace of mind, we help keep your savings secure.
Visit our banking supervision websiteWe develop and issue euro banknotes
We invest in new technologies to make the banknotes you use more secure and resistant to wear and tear. We coordinate their production and issuance with the countries that use the euro.
Explore euro banknotes in 3DWe keep the financial infrastructure running smoothly
When you pay for your shopping electronically or transfer money digitally, we’re there to help. We manage and support the network behind the scenes – the market infrastructure – which allows money to flow smoothly and efficiently, both within countries and across borders.
The Eurosystem and paymentsWe help preserve financial stability
We identify risks that could throw the financial system out of balance, such as stock market turmoil or a sharp fall in house prices, and make recommendations for reducing them. This helps people like you, as well as businesses, to plan and invest for the future.
Our role in financial stabilityHistory
Learn how Europe has grown closer with the introduction of the common currency and the creation of joint banking supervision.
History of the euro areaContact us
Do you have any questions about the ECB and what we do? Find answers to the most popular questions or send us your own.
Explore our press photo hub
Check out our webpage for ECB-related photos. It provides comprehensive coverage, including official portraits, images of euro banknotes, monetary policy press conference photos and pictures from our archives.
Learn more about what we do
Visit us
The ECB Visitor Centre is open for on-site and virtual visits and expert lectures, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the ECB. Take a look at our Visit us page for more information on what we offer and how you can request a visit or lecture.
Visit usTake part in our youth initiatives
The decisions we take can have an impact on your day-to-day life. We organise events around Europe to engage with young people directly and to hear your views and ideas.
Check out our latest initiatives