Genealogy is not just the study of the past, but also the construction of a bridge between the past and the present, illuminating the path to the future
Genealogical research conducted in France is an exciting journey into the past, allowing the discovery of fascinating stories within each family. With each passing year, the interest in tracing one's ancestry continues to grow, and people increasingly ask themselves, "Who were my ancestors?" Many turn to our center to unveil the mysteries of their past. The history of France is closely intertwined with the cultures of neighboring countries, including Germany, Britain, Spain, and Italy, so genealogical research often leads to fascinating discoveries.
The majority of genealogical sources in France cover the period from the 16th century to the present day. In addition to church documents and population censuses, valuable materials for gathering information about a particular genus include family archives. Our specialists assist not only in reconstructing the family tree but also in bringing to life the stories of ancestors, describing their destinies within historical contexts.
Conducting genealogical research in France requires not only meticulousness and attention to detail but also an understanding of the peculiarities of local history and culture. Every family is unique, and genealogical investigations serve as a means to preserve the memory of numerous genuses intricately intertwined with varying fates.
One of the most crucial documents in genealogical research are civil records and church records, where birth, marriage (divorce), and death records were recorded. In France, these documents were compiled in Catholic churches and were kept in Latin until the French Revolution. After 1792, civil records replaced church records, becoming more informative - these documents were now kept in French. Both sources serve as valuable resources for tracing family histories, providing important information about individuals and their relationships. They contain information about religious practices within communities and can shed light on migration processes in the region. Furthermore, these records often include additional details such as the names of parents, godparents, and witnesses, which complement the family history.
Additionally, our experts actively explore other valuable historical materials that help uncover the biographies of people who lived in past centuries. Important sources of biographical information often include personal files from the 19th and 20th centuries related to employment and education. Special attention is given to local censuses, conducted each 5 years in both urban and rural areas. Among the useful sources are military registration documents, as well as descriptions and plans of real estate. All these materials allow for a more detailed insight into the everyday lives of ancestors who left their mark in history.
Time inexorably moves forward, carrying with it the pages of the past and the mysterious destinies of ancestors. It is difficult to imagine, but behind each person in the family tree is an entire lived life. These individuals left their mark in time, filling their lives with events, joy and sorrow, happiness and sadness. And despite the fact that they have long departed from our world, their legacy, like an invisible thread, connects us to the past. The importance of preserving this history is undeniable. The European Genealogical Center provides an opportunity to delve into it. Remembering, preserving, and respecting history means not only delving into our past but also strengthening our connection to what makes us a unique part of the present.