Explore the historical building on your own, or book a sightseeing tour of Seville that includes a stop at the General Archive of the Indies. Here, you can view documents such as exchanges between Christopher Columbus and the Spanish King and Queen, as well as other writings by explorers. Though the extent of what you can view is limited, entrance to the building is free and worth a quick side trip, especially since it’s located next to other popular attractions in Seville.
Most of the exhibits are in Spanish, so consider visiting on a guided tour to better understand the collection.
Since the collection that’s visible to the public is limited, plan to visit when a temporary exhibition is on display.
The building’s interior faces a main courtyard with a checkered floor that’s lined with arches and columns.
It typically takes less than an hour to visit the General Archive of the Indies.
Located on Avenida de la Constitución, the General Archive of the Indies is adjacent to the main cathedral and the Alcazar of Seville, making it easy to visit while touring Seville. The city’s hop-on hop-off bus makes stops within walking distance of the archive, and the Puerta Jerez metro stop is about a 5-minute walk away.
From Tuesday to Saturday, the General Archive of the Indies is open during general business hours, and on Sundays and holidays, it’s open until the early afternoon. It’s closed on Mondays. Overall, Seville sees big crowds during the spring when Holy Week, which includes parades and other religious celebrations, takes place.
Travelers usually combine a quick visit to the archive with a stop at the Alcazar of Seville, originally a Muslim fortress that was transformed into a palace. Considered the oldest palace still in use in Europe, this UNESCO-listed site serves as King Felipe VI’s residence when he visits Seville. Given its history, the palace combines elements of Muslim, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Romantic art, and is a must-see architectural wonder.
