Reading and learning are so important, and libraries were once an essential part of local communities. There is nothing voracious readers love more than stepping into a library, so, for all the bookworms out there, here are 10 of the world’s most jaw-dropping libraries.
1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria
In 2002, the city of Alexandra rebuilt a library to replace the one that was burned down. A trendy, modern, and cultural hub, this library is home to more than 5 million books. Visitors can take advantage of the guided tours that take place every 15 minutes, in an array of different languages.
2. Old Library, Trinity College, Dublin
Dublin is one of the great cultural centers of Ireland, and nowhere is this more prominent than Trinity College’s Old Library. Visit here to see the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th Century!
3. Bodleian Library and Divinity Schools, Oxford
The UK’s most prominent library is one of the oldest in Europe, and houses close to 12 million books. Over the past four centuries, the library had received every book ever printed in the UK. It’s also home to the 15th Century Divinity School, which was used in the Harry Potter movies!
4. Rampur Raza Library, Uttar Pradesh
One of India’s leading libraries has been one of the major hubs of Indo-Islamic culture since its opening in 1774. It resembles an opulent Indian palace more than a library, but this only adds to the allure and prestige of the place.
5. Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana, Florence
Florence is one of the world’s most beautiful cities and is home to one of its most magical libraries. Designed by Michaelangelo himself, its epic wooden reading room is a sight to behold, with stunning cloisters, and an array of exhibitions taking place throughout the year.
6. Austrian National Library, Vienna
Austria’s largest library has beautiful, regal decor, with marble statues, sensational ceilings, and gorgeous bookcases. It feels royal and high-end in every sense. There are guided tours you can take every day, and it’s certainly a wonderful experience to have.
7. Klementinum Library, Prague
This baroque gem is perhaps one of the most iconic libraries in the world. With splashes of color, domed ceilings, and marble floors, this is everything you would hope for in a library.
8. Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, Rio de Janeiro
Opened in 1837, this is a true feat of craftsmanship, with carved wooden finishes enhanced by gloomy lighting, which gives it even more character! The library underwent a renovation in 2016 and remains popular among tourists and locals.
9. Boston Public Library, Massachusetts
What this library lacks in age it more than makes up for in the way it looks. The perfect blend of traditional and modern, this is one of the world’s best-known libraries. There are more than 23 million books housed here, and you’ll recognize Bates Hall from many movies!
10. Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana, Venice
With a staggering 40,000 visitors every day, Venice’s stunning library holds arguably the finest collection of classical texts in the world. A leading example of renaissance architecture, it is considered one of the most ornate buildings in the world, and it’s easy to see why!
The world’s most amazing libraries certainly demand exploration, and if you’re ever lucky enough to visit one or more of these gorgeous places, you’ll understand just how amazing they are.
