📜 Guide to Researching at France's National Archives

Having found little English guidance online, I'm sharing my experience navigating Europe's largest archives (allegedly!) for revolutionary history research. 📍 Getting There 🚇 Metro 13 (Saint-Denis-Université terminus) → 5-min walk to a discreet gate with 🇫🇷/🇪🇺 flags (P2) ⏰ Daytime visits feel safe (near Paris 8 University) 🛂 Entry Process 1️⃣ Security check at main hall (right after entrance) 2️⃣ Get reader card: ID + photo taken by staff (free) 3️⃣ Lockers: Store bags (password-set per instructions P5) 📸 Allowed: Pencils/notebooks/cameras/iPads 📚 Research Tips 🔍 Paper archives: Requires 24h advance booking on AN website (Salle de Lecture Virtuelle) iPad trick: Scan docs directly to Files/Airdrop (lifesaver before closing!) 🎞️ Microfilms: No prior reservation needed! Head to 2nd floor, request reels by "cote" USCAN software lets you export pages to USB 💡 Insider Notes ✅ Exhibition space on archive history (great break spot!) ✅ English-speaking staff in microfilm section (left desk) ⚠️ System quirks: As chaotic as Google Maps' 1-star reviews warn 😅 #FrenchArchives #ResearchTips #ParisScholarLife