Lakos János: Magyar Országos Levéltár (Budapest, 1996)

ELŐSZÓ: Tisztelt Olvasó!

Introduction It may be stated without exaggeration, that the National Archives of Hungary (Magyar Országos Levéltár) treasures the most valuable sources of Hungarian history. There is not a single period of our post 11th century history, which may be researched or studied without making use of the rich collection (about 65 thousand linear metres) of our institution. As also indicated by the term "guide ", the purpose of this volume is to promote basic orientation of those using and researching the Archives. More precisely, it is meant to guide them, as well as make them acquainted with the brief history and competence of the Archives, the regulations and possibilities of access to archival material, and further more the structure and main contents of this material. The last time a similar publication on the National Archives of Hungary appeared - though on a much smaller scale - was in the thirties. As many as forty years have gone by since the publication of a booklet in several languages, titled "The 200 Year Old National Archives ", celebrating the bicentenary of the institution. The present publication therefore meets a long felt need. In the 240th year of the existence of this institution we are offering it to the Honoured Readers and Researchers in the hope that it will serve as a useful aid in their orientation and work. Budapest, 1st of March 1996 János Lakos Diector General