Stiftsarchive
Stiftsarchive are repositories of historical documents and records maintained by ecclesiastical institutions, typically monasteries or cathedrals, often referred to as Stifte in German-speaking regions. These archives hold a wealth of information pertaining to the religious, social, economic, and political history of the areas in which these institutions were located. The documents within a Stiftsarchiv can range from ancient manuscripts and charters to administrative records, legal documents, correspondence, and artworks. They often serve as primary sources for historians studying medieval and early modern periods.
The preservation of records in Stiftsarchive has a long tradition, stemming from the need for institutions