Archives are places where historical records are stored and preserved. They hold documents, photographs, manuscripts, and official records from different time periods. These collections are carefully organized for study and research.

National archives often keep government documents such as laws, letters, and census records. Some archives contain materials that are hundreds or even thousands of years old. Universities and museums also maintain archives with specialized collections.

Researchers and historians visit archives to study original records. Many archives now also store digital copies that can be accessed online.