Abstract: Marx and Engels’ thoughts on marriage and family have pointed out the fundamental direction for the successive legislation and theoretical research on marriage and family in China. Based on historical materialism, they have clarified the development impetus and historical role, moral basis and ethical essence, as well as the core functions and goals of marriage and family. However, with the advancement of globalization and modernization, the concepts, structure and mode of marriage and family have changed greatly. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the contemporary value of Marx and Engels’ thoughts on marriage and family, which serves as the essence of the spirit of the time, to promote the China’s legal system of marriage and family in the era of the Civil Code. The provisions like “Marriage and family are protected by the state”, “A marriage system based on freedom of marriage, monogamy and equality between men and women is implemented” and “The lawful rights and interests of women, minors, the elderly and the persons with disabilities are protected” constitute the main line of institutional value of Marx and Engels’ thoughts on marriage and family in the era of the Civil Code. In addition, under the guidance of Marx and Engels’ thoughts on marriage and family, it is particularly necessary to respond to the most important problems in the field of marriage and family through legislation.