National Archives of Libya Dar al-Mahfuzat al-Tarikhiyya

History and Founding

The National Archives of Libya (Arabic: دار المحفوظات التاريخية, Dar al-Mahfuzat al-Tarikhiyya) is housed within the historic Red Castle (As-saraya Al-hamra) in Tripoli. Archival activity at this site dates to 1928, when a decision was issued to establish a House of Documents for materials older than fifty years. During the Italian colonial period, the archives suffered damage before being reorganized in the early twentieth century by Italian administrators. The archives are located within the Red Castle complex, which also houses the Red Castle Museum and an archaeological library.

Collections and Holdings

The National Archives of Libya preserves historical state records and documents relating to various periods of Libyan history, including the Ottoman era, the Italian colonial period, and the post-independence era. The Red Castle complex that contains the archives is itself a historically layered structure, with portions dating to the Phoenician era and significant construction under Ottoman governors and the Karamanli dynasty (1711–1835). The archives sit alongside the Public Archaeology Library and the Historical Archives Library within the castle complex.

Access and Usage

As a national archive, the institution serves researchers, historians, and government agencies seeking access to official historical records. Physical access to the Red Castle complex has historically been subject to political and security conditions in Libya. Researchers are advised to verify current access conditions directly with the institution before planning visits, given the political instability in Libya since 2011.