Libraries are more than just book repositories—they are cultural time capsules that safeguard history, architecture, and priceless knowledge. Some of the world’s most stunning libraries transport visitors into centuries past with their grand halls, rare collections, and breathtaking designs. Here are ten of the most extraordinary historical libraries that every book lover and traveller should experience.
1. Trinity College Old Library – Dublin, Ireland
Address: College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
Website: www.tcd.ie/library
Visiting Tips: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues. The library is busiest during summer; early mornings offer a quieter experience. Photography is restricted in some areas.
The Long Room of Trinity College’s Old Library is a sight to behold. Built in the early 18th century, its vaulted oak ceiling, towering bookshelves, and marble busts of great thinkers create a scholarly sanctuary. The library houses the Book of Kells, a stunningly illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century. Visitors can explore the historic collection and admire Ireland’s literary heritage.
2. Strahov Monastery Library – Prague, Czech Republic
Address: Strahovské nádvoří 1/132, 118 00 Praha 1, Czech Republic
Website: https://www.strahovskyklaster.cz/en/for-visitors/what-you-can-visit/strahov-library
Visiting Tips: Visitors can only view the library from designated areas. Photography requires a special permit. Combine with a visit to the nearby Petrín Hill for stunning views of Prague.
One of the most exquisite Baroque libraries in Europe, the Strahov Monastery Library features two breathtaking halls: the Theological Hall, adorned with intricate frescoes, and the Philosophical Hall, lined with walnut bookcases and a magnificent ceiling painting. The library houses over 200,000 volumes, including medieval manuscripts and illuminated texts, making it a dream destination for history enthusiasts.
3. Admont Abbey Library – Admont, Austria
Address: Kirchplatz 1, 8911 Admont, Austria
Website: www.stiftadmont.at
Visiting Tips: Guided tours are available and recommended for a deeper understanding of its history. The library is part of a monastery complex, so allow extra time to explore.
Nicknamed the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Admont Abbey Library is the largest monastic library in existence. Built in 1776, its white-and-gold Baroque hall is flooded with natural light from hidden windows, enhancing the stunning ceiling frescoes that depict the progress of human knowledge. The library holds over 70,000 books, including rare medieval manuscripts.
4. Abbey Library of Saint Gall – St. Gallen, Switzerland
Address: Klosterhof 6D, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland
Website: www.stibi.ch
Visiting Tips: Visitors must wear soft slippers over their shoes to protect the wooden floor. No photography is allowed inside. Book guided tours in advance for in-depth knowledge.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Abbey Library of Saint Gall dates back to the 8th century, making it one of the oldest libraries in the world. Its Rococo-style reading room is a masterpiece of gilded woodwork, frescoed ceilings, and carved balconies. The library holds 2,100 medieval manuscripts, including the Plan of St. Gall, the oldest known architectural blueprint.
5. National Library of the Czech Republic – Prague, Czech Republic
Address: Clementinum 190, 110 00 Prague 1, Czech Republic
Website: www.nkp.cz
Visiting Tips: The library’s main Clementinum building is open for guided tours. Some sections are restricted to researchers, so check tour availability in advance.
The National Library of the Czech Republic is the country’s largest and most significant library, housing around 6 million documents. Its main building, the historic Clementinum, is an architectural gem in the heart of Prague. With its ornate Baroque halls and astronomical tower, this library blends cultural heritage with academic importance. The majority of its vast collection is split between the Clementinum and a modern storage facility in the Hostivař district. Visitors can admire the breathtaking interiors and explore the library’s rich literary history.
6. Real Gabinete Português de Leitura – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Address: Rua Luís de Camões, 30 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Website: www.realgabinete.com.br
Visiting Tips: Entrance is free, but check opening hours as they can be limited. A quiet, respectful atmosphere is encouraged.
The Royal Portuguese Reading Room is a Neo-Manueline masterpiece, resembling a cathedral of books. Built in 1887 by Portuguese immigrants, its intricate carved wood, stained-glass skylight, and tiered balconies make it one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Housing over 350,000 volumes, it has the largest collection of Portuguese literature outside Portugal.
7. Biblioteca Joanina – Coimbra, Portugal
Address: Paço das Escolas, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal
Website: https://visit.uc.pt/pt/space-list/joanina
Visiting Tips: Only small guided groups are allowed at a time. Look out for the bats that protect the books from insects!
A Baroque treasure within the University of Coimbra, Biblioteca Joanina was commissioned by King João V in the 18th century. The library’s gilded woodwork, painted ceilings, and secret staircase create an atmosphere of opulence. Its collection includes first editions of Os Lusíadas by Camões and rare 16th-century navigation maps.
8. Librería Palafoxiana – Puebla, Mexico
Address: Av 5 Ote 5, Centro, 72000 Puebla, Mexico
Website: https://palafoxiana.com/en_subdomain/index/
Visiting Tips: Non-flash photography is allowed. Combine your visit with the nearby Puebla Cathedral and artisan markets.
Established in 1646, Librería Palafoxiana is the oldest public library in the Americas. The 18th-century cedarwood bookshelves, Baroque altarpiece, and original Puebla tile floors give the space a colonial charm. With over 45,000 volumes, including indigenous language texts and 15th-century incunabula, this library embodies Mexico’s literary legacy.
9. Al-Qarawiyyin Library – Fez, Morocco
Address: University of Al-Qarawiyyin, Fez, Morocco
Website: https://ideas.ted.com/restoring-the-worlds-oldest-library/
Visiting Tips: Limited public access, but visitors can admire the library’s exterior and architecture. Guided visits may be arranged with local tour operators.
Founded in 859 AD, the Al-Qarawiyyin Library is the world’s oldest continuously operating library. Part of the historic University of Al-Qarawiyyin, this library preserves rare Islamic manuscripts, including a 9th-century Quran written on camel skin.
10. Bodleian Library – Oxford, England
Address: Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BG, UK
Website: https://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/home
Visiting Tips: Book a guided tour in advance to access restricted areas. Photography is not allowed inside Duke Humfrey’s Library.
One of the most famous libraries in the world, the Bodleian Library has been the intellectual heart of Oxford since 1602. It holds over 13 million books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible, Shakespeare’s First Folio, and medieval bestiaries. The historic Radcliffe Camera and Duke Humfrey’s Library offer visitors a glimpse into centuries of literary history.
Visiting these libraries is like stepping into living history. From Baroque grandeur to medieval treasures, they offer a glimpse into humanity’s quest for knowledge. If you love books, history, or architecture, these destinations are a must-see on your travels.
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and traveling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet.
Safe and mindful travels!