Departmental Archives of Bouches-Du-Rhône

Introduction

The Departmental Archives of Bouches-du-Rhône, located in Marseille, are a premier institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the historical, social, and cultural heritage of southern France. Established in 1796 during the reorganization of France’s archival system, these archives provide a unique window into the evolution of Marseille as a major Mediterranean port and cultural crossroads.

Since 2006, the archives have been housed in a state-of-the-art facility in the Saint-Charles district, offering modern conservation, accessibility, and public services. Their commitment to digitization ensures that thousands of documents—from medieval charters to audiovisual records—are accessible worldwide. Whether you are a historian, genealogist, student, or traveler, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your visit, understand the resources available, and make the most of your experience.

For up-to-date information and digital resources, visit the official website and the FranceArchives national portal.

The Departmental Archives of Bouches-du-Rhône were founded in 1796 as part of France's revolutionary effort to centralize public records from the Ancien Régime, the revolutionary period, and subsequent governments (Archives Nationales). Marseille, as the capital of the Bouches-du-Rhône department, quickly emerged as a key center for the collection and preservation of documents reflecting the region’s dynamic political, economic, and social transformations.

Institutional Development and Modernization

Early Growth and Locations

Initially located in the Palais de Justice, the archives moved several times over the 19th and 20th centuries to accommodate expanding collections—including notarial deeds, maps, photographs, and audiovisual materials (Service interministériel des Archives de France).

The Move to Saint-Charles

In 2006, the archives moved to a purpose-built, 20,000 m² facility in the Saint-Charles district. This modern building was designed to meet rigorous standards of document preservation, security, and public accessibility (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Tourism). It is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

Digital Transformation

The archives have adopted advanced digitization strategies, making a large portion of their holdings available online. Parish registers, civil status records, maps, and more can be accessed through the official portal, expanding research possibilities for users worldwide.

Collections and Unique Holdings

The Departmental Archives safeguard over 78 kilometers of documents, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present. Major categories include:

• Administrative Records: Prefectural, municipal, and departmental archives.
• Notarial and Judicial Archives: Contracts, deeds, court records.
• Ecclesiastical and Religious Documents: Parish registers, church council minutes.
• Private Papers: Notable family and personal collections.
• Maps and Urban Plans: Detailed documentation of Marseille’s urban development.
• Photographs and Audiovisual Materials: Historic images and sound recordings.

Highlights include the “Indicateur marseillais” (directories from 1840–1980) and unique cartographic records illustrating the city’s transformation.

Visitor Information: Hours, Admission, and Location

Opening Hours

• Current Standard Hours:
  • Monday: 14:00–18:00
  • Tuesday–Friday: 9:00–18:00
  • Saturday: 9:00–12:45 (closed in July and August)
  • Closed Sundays and public holidays.
  • Annual closure: December 25–January 1 and the week of August 15.

Note: Hours may vary. Always check the official website before planning your visit.

Admission

• Entry: Free for all visitors. No tickets required.
• Registration: Required for access to reading rooms. Bring valid photo ID.

Location and Access

• Address: 18 rue Mirès, 13003 Marseille (contact)
• Public Transport: Steps from Marseille Saint-Charles train station; accessible via tram, metro, and bus.
• Parking: Limited nearby; public transport is recommended.

Online Portal

The archives13.fr portal provides access to digitized parish and civil registers, census records, cadastral maps, military documents, and thematic inventories. A detailed user manual is available for first-time users.

On-Site Research

The archives offer spacious, well-equipped reading rooms with natural light and privacy screens. Archivists are available for assistance. Original documents not yet digitized can be consulted on site.

Specialized Tools and Partnerships

• Indexes: Notarial acts, judicial records, and themed collections (e.g., war memorials).
• Genealogical Support: Local societies such as AG13 offer workshops and databases.
• Collaborations: Partnerships with local municipal archives, the Bibliothèque municipale, and the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie Marseille-Provence. Contributions to the national library Gallica include the historic “Indicateur marseillais”.

Visitor Experience and Engagement

The archives host regular exhibitions, thematic displays, and guided tours. Educational programs and workshops are available for schools, researchers, and the public (Educational Activities). The facility’s modern architecture, designed by Corinne Vezzoni, includes accessible amenities such as elevators, ramps, adapted restrooms, lockers, and free Wi-Fi.

Document Handling and Photography

• Handle materials as instructed by staff. Gloves may be provided for fragile documents.
• Personal photography is permitted without flash, subject to approval.

Special Programs and Tours

• Guided Tours: Available by appointment for individuals, groups, and school classes.
• Workshops: Regularly scheduled on genealogy, archival research, and local history.
• Exhibitions and Lectures: Check the official website for current programming.

Amenities and Nearby Attractions

• On-Site Amenities: Secure lockers, accessible restrooms, vending machines (note: no full café).
• Nearby Dining: Numerous options in the Euroméditerranée district.
• Other Attractions:
  • Saint-Martin d’Arenc Church
  • La Friche la Belle de Mai cultural complex
  • Marseille’s Old Port (Vieux-Port)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current visiting hours?
A: Monday 14:00–18:00; Tuesday–Friday 9:00–18:00; Saturday 9:00–12:45 (closed in July and August).

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry is free and no ticket is required.

Q: Do I need to register?
A: Yes, registration with photo ID is required to access the reading rooms.

Q: Can I access records online?
A: Yes, many collections are digitized and available via the online portal.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours and workshops are available by appointment.

Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, it is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Personal, non-flash photography is generally permitted with staff approval.