Beyond shelves filled with old papers, the Historical Archives of Granada and the Royal Chancellery house a rich collection of documents ranging from centenary plans and maps to commercial contracts and manuscripts. These institutions are celebrating International Archives Day on June 9 and 10, showcasing the diversity of their documentary heritage to the public.
These documentary funds offer a window into the daily lives of past generations of Granadans, allowing for the reconstruction of customs, social relationships, and economic activities. Records of old businesses, deeds, correspondence, notarial registers, and judicial documentation reflecting aspects of society from centuries past can be found.
Particularly striking are the historical maps, plans, and drawings preserved in the Royal Chancellery Archive, linked to judicial proceedings and offering a unique view of the Granadan and Andalusian territory over time. These documents detail urban evolution, property distribution, and representations of spaces that have significantly changed.
“"Archives are much more than places intended to preserve old papers. They function as guarantors of rights, transparency, and collective memory."
Through the digital platform @rchivAWeb, a selection of these materials is accessible to citizens. This year's celebration, under the theme 'Archives for Justice: Rights, Memory and Future,' aims to bring these institutions closer to society.
Both the Provincial Historical Archive and the Royal Chancellery have organized guided tours and special activities, also participating in the 2nd Circuit of guided tours to Granada's archives, a joint initiative with other local archives. The goal is to showcase the province's history and the surprising documents they hold.
