Archivo General De La Nación Del Perú

Archivo General de la Nación del Perú (AGN), Lima: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Information

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Archivo General de la Nación del Perú (AGN) is Peru’s primary institution for the preservation and dissemination of the nation’s documentary heritage. Located in central Lima, the AGN provides invaluable resources for researchers, genealogists, historians, and travelers eager to explore Peru’s social, political, and cultural evolution. This guide offers comprehensive information on AGN’s history, collections, visiting hours, ticketing, visitor services, digital access, and practical travel tips to ensure an enriching experience at one of Lima’s most significant historical sites. For official updates, visit the AGN official website and the digital archive platform.

Introduction
Historical and National Significance
Collections and Highlights
Visiting: Hours, Admission, Accessibility, and Tips
Digital Resources and Research Support
Conservation and Preservation Initiatives
Special Events, Tours, and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Encouragement
References

Historical and National Significance

Founded in 1861 under President Ramón Castilla, the AGN was created to centralize and safeguard Peru’s official records and documentary treasures. Its collections, spanning from the 16th century to the present, are instrumental in reconstructing the country’s political, economic, and social history. The AGN also serves as the rector of Peru’s National Archives System and is attached to the Ministry of Culture, with a mandate to ensure transparency, access, and the protection of citizens’ rights (Wikipedia; AGN official site).

Collections and Highlights

Scope and Breadth

The AGN preserves over 150 million documents, ranking among Latin America’s largest and most significant archives. Its main holdings include:

Colonial and Republican Records:
These foundational documents—such as the “Protocolo Ambulante de los Conquistadores” and records of the Real Audiencia de Lima—provide insight into Peru’s early governance and society (fondosdocumentales.agn.gob.pe).
Municipal and Judicial Archives:
Documentation from the Cabildo de Lima, Municipality of Lima, courts, and ministries illustrates the evolution of local governance and justice (infobae.com).
Notarial Protocols and Civil Registers:
Extensive records of births, marriages, deaths, property, and contracts—key for genealogical and social history research (fondosdocumentales.agn.gob.pe).
Specialized Collections:
Unique materials on the Santa Inquisición, immigration, and agrarian reform, among others (fondosdocumentales.agn.gob.pe).
Governmental and Administrative Records:
Documentation from various ministries and public bodies, reflecting the evolution of the Peruvian state.

Noteworthy Holdings

Protocolo Ambulante de los Conquistadores: Early colonial legal and administrative records.
Santa Inquisición Documents: Rare sources on colonial religious history.
Immigration Registers: Vital for family and migration studies.
Agrarian Reform Collections: Documents from Peru’s 20th-century land reforms.
Municipal and Judicial Records: Comprehensive coverage of Lima’s local administration.

Visiting: Hours, Admission, Accessibility, and Tips

Locations

Main Headquarters: Av. Nicolás de Piérola N° 589, Pisos 18 y 19, Cercado de Lima (AGN Contact Information)
Branches: Sede Correo, Sede Isla Hawai (Pueblo Libre), Sede Crillón, Sede ENA, Sede Lince, and Sede Palacio (Gob.pe AGN Sedes)

Visiting Hours

Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (some branches until 4:45 p.m.)
Closed: Weekends and public holidays (snarector.agn.gob.pe)

Admission and Registration

Free general admission to public areas and reading rooms.
Specialized services (e.g., document reproduction, certifications) may require prior registration and nominal fees (Guía Genealógica).
Registration: Present a valid photo ID and sign in at reception. Researchers may need to specify their research focus and complete request forms.

Accessibility and Amenities

Building Accessibility: Elevators, ramps, and accessible entrances at principal sites.
Facilities: Reading rooms, lockers, restrooms, limited public Wi-Fi.
No on-site café, but many restaurants and cafés are nearby.

Travel and Practical Tips

Public transport, taxis, and ride-sharing provide easy access.
Parking is limited in downtown Lima; public transport is recommended.
Bring a list of research topics or document references for efficient consultation.
Plan ahead for group visits or special research needs (contact AGN in advance).

Digital Resources and Research Support

Online Archives: The Archivo Histórico Digital provides access to digitized manuscripts, maps, and official records.
Archidoc Platform: Enables remote research and digital document requests (snarector.agn.gob.pe).
Guides and Catalogs: Published to assist visitors in navigating collections (snarector.agn.gob.pe).
Language: Most resources are in Spanish. Non-Spanish speakers should use translation apps or bring a translator.

Conservation and Preservation Initiatives

In 2025, the Peruvian government allocated $13 million to construct a new, state-of-the-art facility in Pueblo Libre, reinforcing the AGN’s commitment to long-term conservation (infobae.com).
The Dirección de Conservación oversees both physical restoration and digital preservation, guaranteeing the safeguarding of Peru’s documentary legacy (datosabiertos.gob.pe).

Special Events, Tours, and Nearby Attractions

Exhibitions and Workshops: The AGN hosts educational programs, events, and temporary exhibits on Peruvian history and archival science. Check the AGN website and social media for schedules.
Guided Tours: Offered by advance request, especially for educational groups.
Nearby Attractions:
- Palacio de Justicia
- Plaza San Martín
- Museo de la Inquisición
Photography: Generally prohibited inside, unless authorized. Building exteriors and surrounding areas are ideal for photos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the AGN’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (some branches until 4:45 p.m.).

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: General admission is free. Fees apply for specialized services (e.g., reproductions).

Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: Not for general visits, but researchers or groups should contact the AGN in advance for special access or guided tours.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Only with prior authorization.

Q: Is the AGN accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, main buildings are accessible. Contact in advance for special needs.

Q: How can I access digital archives?
A: Through the Archivo Histórico Digital and Archidoc.

Summary and Visitor Encouragement

The Archivo General de la Nación del Perú is a living archive of the nation’s memory, offering an unparalleled resource for research, genealogy, and cultural understanding. With its free admission, modern facilities, and digital resources, the AGN welcomes all who wish to connect with Peru’s past. For a deeper experience, explore nearby historical sites and enrich your visit with apps like Audiala, which offers audio guides and curated local content.
Stay updated on exhibitions, access policies, and special events on the AGN official website. Embark on your journey today and discover the legacy preserved within Peru’s national archives.