General Archive of the Nation (Peru)

The General Archive of the Nation (Archivo General de la Nación, AGN) of Peru is the national archive responsible for preserving and making accessible the documentary heritage of the Peruvian nation. It functions as the central repository for historical documents produced by government institutions, private organizations, and individuals that are deemed to be of national significance.

The AGN plays a crucial role in safeguarding Peru's historical memory and promoting research into the country's past. Its collections encompass a wide range of materials, including colonial-era administrative records, republican-era legislation, notarial documents, maps, photographs, and audiovisual materials. The archive’s holdings provide valuable insights into Peru's political, social, economic, and cultural development.

The AGN’s activities include:

• Acquisition and Preservation: Identifying, acquiring, and preserving documents of historical value.
• Organization and Description: Arranging and describing collections to facilitate access and research.
• Access and Dissemination: Providing access to its holdings to researchers, students, and the general public through its reading room, online resources, and outreach programs.
• Digitization: Undertaking digitization projects to preserve fragile documents and improve accessibility.
• Promotion of Archival Science: Contributing to the development of archival standards and promoting the importance of archival preservation.

The AGN is governed by a director appointed by the Ministry of Culture. It operates according to Peruvian archival legislation and international best practices. Researchers utilizing the archive must adhere to its rules and regulations, particularly regarding the handling of original documents. The AGN is a vital institution for understanding Peru's history and cultural identity.