Arxiu de la Corona d'Aragó, Medieval palace and archive in Gothic Quarter, Barcelona, Spain
The Arxiu de la Corona d'Aragó is a palace building in the Gothic Quarter that houses royal documents and administrative records. The spaces combine Gothic architecture with modern function as a research facility where visitors can view original manuscripts and historical files.
King James II founded the Royal Archive in 1318 to gather documents from all territories of the Crown in one location. Over centuries the collections grew steadily, reflecting the political and territorial changes of Aragonese rule.
The archive served for centuries as the memory of the Aragonese Crown, showing through its collections how vital written records were to governing a kingdom. Visitors can understand today how rulers exercised their authority through documented decisions and treaties.
The reading room opens Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 14:30 and visitors must present identification. It is wise to check beforehand whether specific collections are open to visitors, as some areas may be reserved for research.
The archive holds historical playing cards that were hidden inside book bindings, some older than 500 years. These chance discoveries show how people protected their valued possessions and how much everyday material has survived in the documents.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
