Location and How to Get There
Address: ul. Pomorska 2, 50-215 Wrocław, Poland
The archive is centrally situated and easily accessible by public transport—tram and bus lines stop at “Pomorska” and “Dubois.” Due to limited parking, visitors are encouraged to use public transport (wroclaw.ap.gov.pl).
Visiting Hours and Admission
- Regular Hours
- Monday–Thursday: 09:00–15:30
- Friday: 09:00–18:00
- Closed Weekends and public holidays
- Admission Free for all visitors. Some special guided tours or events may require advance booking or a fee.
Always check the official website for up-to-date opening hours and special event schedules.
Registration and Access Procedures
Upon entry, all visitors must register at reception and present a valid photo ID (passport, national ID, or driver’s license), as required by Polish law (Wroclaw Guide).
- Researchers and genealogists are encouraged to pre-register online or by email, especially if requesting specific materials.
- Document Requests Use a request form (rewers) online or in-person, specifying the documents you wish to view.
Facilities and Accessibility
- Reading Room Workstations and reference materials are available. Only pencils are permitted for note-taking; personal items must be stored in lockers.
- Digital Access On-site terminals provide access to vast digital collections, including over 2.2 million scans. Many resources are also available online (szukajwarchiwach.gov.pl).
- Library On-site reference collection with books and periodicals on Silesian and Wrocław history.
- Wi-Fi Free for visitors.
- Accessibility The archive is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Contact staff ahead for special arrangements.
Highlights of the Archive’s Collections
- Medieval Charters Including the 1175 foundation charter by Duke Bolesław I the Tall, the oldest Silesian seal, and the 1261 foundation document for Wrocław.
- Maps and Plans Detailed cartographic records from the 19th and 20th centuries.
- Civil Registry Records Vital for genealogical research, including documents from over 400 Prussian registry offices.
- Photographic Archives Visual documentation of Wrocław’s transformation.
- UNESCO-recognized Documents Medieval rotuli from Ołbin Monastery.
- Postwar and WWII Records Forced labor documentation, Communist-era employment, and property records.
Explore the digital catalog for remote research or to plan your visit (szukajwarchiwach.gov.pl).
Visitor Experience: What to Expect
- Orientation Friendly staff provide guidance on using digital catalogs and locating materials.
- Handling Materials Use gloves when required; follow staff instructions for the preservation of historical items.
- Photography Generally not permitted in the reading room; permission may be requested for specific documents.
- Atmosphere Quiet, scholarly, and welcoming to both seasoned researchers and first-time visitors.
Special Events and Guided Tours
- Noc Muzeów (Night of Museums) Annual event with special tours, behind-the-scenes access, and workshops (wiadomosci.radiozet.pl).
- Guided Tours Often available for groups by prior arrangement; check the website for details.
Nearby Wrocław Attractions
Combine your archive visit with exploration of other historical sites:
- Ostrów Tumski Wrocław’s oldest district with stunning cathedrals.
- Rynek (Market Square) Vibrant center with Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
- University of Wrocław Famous Baroque main building.
- Centennial Hall UNESCO World Heritage site.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Always bring valid identification.
- Advance document requests are recommended for efficient research.
- Use public transport to avoid parking issues.
- Most materials are in Polish or German; translation aids may be helpful.
- Check the archive’s website for temporary exhibitions and workshops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, admission is free. Some special events may require booking or a fee.
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Monday–Thursday: 09:00–15:30; Friday: 09:00–18:00. Check the official website for updates.
Q: Is the archive accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is wheelchair accessible. Contact in advance for assistance.
Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Usually not permitted in the reading room; ask staff for permissions regarding specific materials.
Q: How do I access documents?
A: Register at reception with valid ID, then submit a request form online or in person.
Contact Information
- Address Archiwum Państwowe we Wrocławiu, ul. Pomorska 2, 50-215 Wrocław, Poland
- Phone +48 71 343 62 96
- Email [email protected]
- Website https://www.wroclaw.ap.gov.pl/
