Books
The 10 most beautiful libraries around the world
Whether you’re a bookworm or just a lover of fine architecture, these gorgeous libraries are sure to fill you with wanderlust. Here are 10 of the most stunning libraries around the world.
- Clementinum in Prague, Czech Republic – built in 1722, the Baroque library hall is adorned with elaborate frescoes and houses The National Library of the Czech Republic.
- Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., USA – established in 1800 and boasting over 160,000,000 items on catalogue, the Library of Congress has the largest collection in the world.
- Marciana Library in Venice, Italy – a pinnacle of Renaissance architecture, this stunning library took 50 years to build after construction began in 1537.
- Trinity College Old Library in Dublin, Ireland – the grand Long Room is the most iconic part of this historic library, founded in 1592.
- Bodleian Library at Oxford University, England – established in 1602, this library is the second largest in Britain and was used as a filming location in the first two Harry Potter films.
- Biblioteca Joanina in Coimbra, Portugal – another Baroque masterpiece built in 1717, this library is known for its elaborate decorative elements.
- Austrian National Library in Vienna, Austria – built in 1723, this incredible library was once the palace library, and once you see in side you won’t be surprised to hear of its royal past.
- The Library of El Escorial in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Spain – this royal library is spectacularly adorned in gold and classic frescoes and is nestled in the magnificent royal site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
- Abbey Library in St. Gallen, Switzerland – at over 1,000 years old, this World Heritage site is designed in the Rococo style and survived the devastating fire in 937 which destroyed the Abbey.
- Sainte-Geneviève Library in Paris, France – designed nearly 200 years ago, the grand glass and iron reading room is one of the most iconic libraries in France.
Images: Getty