The Oldest Bookshops in Portugal: A Journey Through Time
Portugal, a country known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine, also boasts a vibrant literary culture. This is evident in the numerous bookshops scattered across the country, some of which have been in operation for centuries. These bookshops are not just commercial establishments; they are repositories of knowledge, culture, and history. They have witnessed the evolution of literature and society, and have played a significant role in shaping Portugal’s intellectual landscape. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of the oldest bookshops in Portugal, exploring their history and significance.
Livraria Bertrand, Lisbon
Established in 1732, Livraria Bertrand holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest operating bookshop in the world. It was founded by Pedro Faure, who later partnered with Jean-Baptiste Bertrand, giving the store its current name. The bookshop has survived earthquakes, political upheavals, and economic crises, and continues to thrive today.
The original Livraria Bertrand was destroyed in the devastating earthquake of 1755 but was rebuilt in Chiado district, where it still stands. The bookshop has a charming old-world ambiance with wooden shelves lined with books from floor to ceiling. It hosts regular literary events and has been visited by numerous renowned authors over the centuries.
Livraria Lello, Porto
Often touted as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, Livraria Lello was established in 1881 by the Lello brothers. The bookshop is a stunning architectural masterpiece, featuring a neo-Gothic façade, a stained-glass skylight, and a spectacular staircase that seems to float in the air.
Livraria Lello is also known for its connection with J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, who lived in Porto in the early 1990s. It is said that the bookshop’s enchanting interior inspired the depiction of Hogwarts in her books. Today, Livraria Lello attracts thousands of tourists every year, who come to marvel at its beauty and soak in its literary atmosphere.
Livraria Esperança, Madeira
Located on the island of Madeira, Livraria Esperança is one of the largest bookshops in Portugal, boasting over 100,000 titles spread across several rooms. The bookshop was established in 1886 and has been run by the same family for five generations.
Livraria Esperança is unique in that it does not categorize its books. Instead, they are arranged randomly, encouraging customers to explore and discover new titles. The bookshop also hosts regular cultural events, including book launches, readings, and exhibitions.
Livraria Ferin, Lisbon
Founded in 1840 by a Belgian family, Livraria Ferin is one of the oldest bookshops in Lisbon. The bookshop has a rich history and has been passed down through several generations of the Ferin family.
Livraria Ferin is known for its extensive collection of Portuguese literature, as well as its selection of books in French, English, and other languages. The bookshop has a cozy, inviting atmosphere, with wooden shelves filled with books and a quiet reading area where customers can sit and read.
Livraria Académica, Porto
Livraria Académica in Porto was established in 1903 and is one of the oldest second-hand bookshops in Portugal. The bookshop specializes in rare and antique books, and has a vast collection of titles covering various subjects.
Livraria Académica has a charming, old-fashioned ambiance, with books stacked from floor to ceiling. The bookshop is a treasure trove for bibliophiles and history enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the past and discover rare literary gems.
Conclusion
These historic bookshops are more than just places to buy books; they are cultural landmarks that offer a glimpse into Portugal’s rich literary heritage. They have stood the test of time, weathering changes in society and technology, and continue to serve as hubs of knowledge and learning. Whether you’re a book lover, a history buff, or a traveler seeking unique experiences, these bookshops are must-visit destinations on your trip to Portugal.
Passionate traveler, travel planner, private tour guide, and travel article writer in Portugal. Owner of The Lisbon Guide with more than 250.000 pages visited every year (5 million views in 12 years)
I'm based in Lisbon/Portugal and experienced in travel planning, tour guiding, and entrepreneurship since 1996, and guiding customers for over 20 years across Portugal. Helping customers from all over the world, planning their stay in Portugal. I'm also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide, assisting thousands of travelers yearly to plan their perfect trip.
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