Regarding the content itself, there was a clear preference for the Restoration of 1640, as evidenced by a high number of articles on this event: of the 53 entries, 20 focused on aspects related to it, ranging from the figure of King João IV to wartime events, prominent figures, heraldry, monetary and financial policy, and conditions in the broader empire, among other topics. This fascination reflects the mythical historiography that grew around the event, which was elevated to the status of a national commemoration from a traditionalist perspective (Luís Reis Torgal, Ideologia política e teoria do Estado na Restauração , 1981, 22-36). Some key articles further underscore the importance given to this period: O Conselho da Fazenda e as alterações monetárias no reinado de D. João IV [The Council of the Treasury and the Monetary Changes during the Reign of King João IV] by Damião Peres (1959), which examines the role of money during this phase of political transition; Crónica inédita de D. João IV [Unpublished Chronicle of King João IV] by António Coelho (1946); A origem do poder real e as Côrtes de 1641 [The Origin of Royal Power and the Cortes of 1641] by João Francisco Aires Campos (1942), which deals with political issues; and A bordadura das armas nacionais e os juristas da Restauração [The Border of the National Coat of Arms and the Jurists of the Restoration] by the Count of São Paio (1944), on the origins and significance of elements within the national coat of arms, among others.

While the first series of the Anais favours the Restoration period, it does not neglect other periods and subjects of study. Indeed, the range is both broad and varied, demonstrating the versatility of the authors, though the language often leans towards nationalist history. For example, significant attention was given to medieval Portugal, with the first two volumes devoted exclusively to this period, covering topics such as the Battle of Ourique, morabitinos, charters, chronicles, and legal structures. Studies on the Palaeolithic and Mesolithic also emerged, reflecting a broadening of thematic scope.

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