Behind the walls of a 12th-century palace lies the Archivo Real y General de Navarra, the Royal and General Archive of Navarra. What was once a palatial home for medieval monarchs and bishops now holds historical documents from the kingdom of Navarra. It covers more than 1,000 years’ worth of history. Browse ancient documents as you explore this historic building.

The Archivo Real y General de Navarra is primarily for those researching the region’s past. However, part of the old palace complex is open to the public. Visit the grandiose building’s accessible areas. In the “zagúan,” or hallway, see the huge wooden model of old Pamplona. Venture down into the vaulted Gothic crypt where exhibitions of documents from the archive are presented. Enjoy a stroll around the inner courtyard.

Occasionally, the building hosts guided tours organized through educational and cultural centers. Another opportunity to explore the palace's interior is on June 9 of every year. This is the International Day of Archives when the Archivo Real y General de Navarra hosts public tours. Find out more by visiting the archive’s official website.

To use the archive’s research facilities bring photographic ID. You will also need to fill in a user registration request form. The collection of material is huge, covering miles of shelving. Among the records are ancient maps, historical accounts, lawsuits brought before the High Court, a photographic archive, documents belonging to churches, convents and monasteries, sales records of church properties and agreements between villages. The oldest documents date back many hundreds of years.

The Archivo Real y General de Navarra is located in Pamplona's historical quarter, close to the Museum of Navarra and opposite the Basilica of San Fermín de Aldapa. From the center of Pamplona you can easily walk here in a few minutes. The building is open daily and admission and access to the archives are free.