The Archives de la Ville et de la Métropole de Nice are housed in various locations. The Villa Les Palmiers, a sublime former 19th-century residence in the Fabron district, is the place where documents are communicated and an exhibition space.
For decades, they were kept in the sacristy of the Cathedral Sainte Marie du Château. From 1963, the Nice Côte d'Azur archives found their place at the heart of the sublime "Palais de Marbre." More than 43,500 library books, newspapers and magazines are kept in this 19th century residence. The oldest piece, a charter by Alphonse I, King of Aragon, recognising peace between Nice and the County of Provence, dates from 1176.
The imposing Palace with its neo-Palladian façade is inspired by the Italian Renaissance and is dressed with Carrara marble. Like a "Little Versailles," it opens onto a huge French-style garden which is based around a pool. More than a place of research, the archives host exhibitions, readings and cultural events throughout the year. The villa and its garden have been registered as Historic Monuments since 1993.
