In the heart of Seville lies one of the most important documentary treasures in the world: the General Archive of the Indies. Founded in 1785 by order of King Charles III, this archive preserves the written memory of Spain’s overseas empire and its administration in the Americas and the Philippines.
The archive was created to centralize documents that were previously scattered across Simancas, Cádiz, and Seville. Today, it safeguards approximately 43,000 bundles containing more than 80 million pages and 8,000 maps and drawings, making it an unparalleled source for historical research.
The building itself is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Designed by Juan de Herrera and executed by Juan de Minjares, it features a square central courtyard surrounded by elegant arcades. The grand staircase, added in the 18th century, is one of its most impressive features.
Among its treasures are original documents signed by historical figures such as Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, Hernán Cortés, and Francisco Pizarro, making the archive a unique testimony to the history of global exploration.
In 1987, the General Archive of the Indies was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its universal value as a guardian of shared history between Europe and the Americas.
Visiting the Archive of the Indies is an extraordinary journey through history, offering insight into the events, decisions, and people that shaped the modern world.
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