We will begin our journey through the most fascinating bookshops of Europe (and beyond). Bookshops are much more than mere bookstores; they are sanctuaries of knowledge, cultural meeting points, and spaces of artistic inspiration. In Europe, some bookshops have achieved global fame not only for their richly stocked shelves but also for their extraordinary architecture and historical significance. These bookshops have become true tourist attractions, places of pilgrimage for book lovers and more. Each bookshop we will explore in this article encapsulates stories of passion, innovation, and resilience, demonstrating how these spaces can influence not only literature but also the cultural identity of a city.
Lello Bookshop (Porto, Portugal)
In the heart of Porto, Lello Bookshop stands out as one of the most precious jewels of European cultural heritage. Established in 1906 by the Lello brothers, the bookshop is known for its neo-Gothic façade and the lavish interior that seems to capture the very essence of literary magic. It is no coincidence that J.K. Rowling, who lived in Porto in the 1990s, found inspiration for her renowned “Harry Potter” right amongst these ancient shelves.
History and Foundation
Lello Bookshop was inaugurated on 13 January 1906, the result of the ambition of the brothers José and António Lello to create a temple of knowledge in their hometown. They desired a place that was not just a point of sale but a cultural centre capable of influencing generations of readers and intellectuals.
Architecture and Interiors
Entering Lello Bookshop is like stepping into another world. Visitors are immediately struck by the large red staircase dominating the entrance, framed by wooden boiseries and stained glass that filter light in almost mystical ways. The ceiling, decorated with carvings and paintings that represent themes of literature and science, adds another level of wonder.
Cultural Impact
Lello is not just a landmark for tourists but remains a central place in Porto’s cultural life. In addition to being a bookshop, it often hosts literary events, book launches, and other cultural activities that attract not only locals but also international visitors.
Shakespeare and Company (Paris, France)
Shakespeare and Company are not just a bookshop; it’s a cultural icon in the heart of Paris. Founded in 1951 by George Whitman, it is named after the original Shakespeare and Company run by Sylvia Beach in the 1920s, which was a meeting point for writers such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and James Joyce. Whitman’s reincarnation has continued this literary tradition, becoming a refuge for writers and readers from around the world.
Bookshop History
The original bookshop opened by Sylvia Beach in 1919 became famous not only as a bookstore and publishing house but also as a meeting point for the American literary avant-garde in Paris. After closing during World War II, George Whitman opened his version of Shakespeare and Company on the Left Bank of the Seine, opposite Notre-Dame Cathedral, pledging to perpetuate the spirit of the original site.
Distinctive Features and Cultural Offerings
Shakespeare and Company are more than a bookshop; it is also a “waiting room of leisure,” where visitors are encouraged to read books on the spot. The bookshop hosts ‘tumbleweeds’, young writers who live temporarily among the shelves in exchange for a few hours of work a day and the promise to read a book a day. This unique programme has helped cement the bookshop’s role as a vital cultural centre.
Unique Experiences for Visitors and Residents
In addition to its famous residents, Shakespeare and Company frequently organises events, poetry readings, musical evenings, and writing workshops that are open to both Parisians and international visitors. The bookshop also has a café next door, where customers can reflect on their latest literary discoveries while enjoying a breathtaking view of Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Acqua Alta (Venice, Italy)
Acqua Alta Bookshop in Venice is famous not only for its eclectic collection of books but also for its unique approach to managing ‘acqua alta’, the typical high-water phenomenon of the city. This charming and picturesque bookshop has become internationally famous for its creative strategies for preserving books and the magical atmosphere that only a city like Venice can offer.
Description of the Unique Venetian Context
Venice, with its canals and historic architecture, provides a unique setting for a bookshop. Acqua Alta is in a quiet inner courtyard, away from the most beaten tourist paths, which contributes to its secret charm. The bookshop takes its name from the ‘acqua alta’ event, the exceptionally high tides that periodically flood the city.
Peculiar Features and Flood Management
The bookshop has adopted unique methods to protect its books from frequent flooding. Books, magazines, and ancient maps are stored in boats, bathtubs, and even a gondola inside the shop, creating an atmosphere that seems out of a novel. These floating containers help safeguard the volumes during high tides, turning a challenge into a fascinating visual attraction.
Importance in the Cultural Landscape of Venice
In addition to being a bookshop, Acqua Alta serves as a meeting point for literature lovers and visitors curious to discover a more authentic side of Venice. The owner, Luigi Frizzo, is a charismatic figure who loves to tell stories about the city and its books, adding a personal touch to the shopping experience. The bookshop also hosts cats that roam freely among the shelves, adding an additional element of domesticity and warmth.
The Role of Bookshops as Cultural Centres
Bookshops are not just points of sale; they are vital centres for the community where people meet, share ideas, and grow culturally. Through events, workshops, and meetings with authors, bookshops remain at the heart of city life, influencing generations of readers and writers.
The Importance of Maintaining These Historical Spaces
The maintenance and enhancement of these spaces not only preserve architectural history but also promote literary culture. Each bookshop we have visited demonstrates a commitment to preserving its uniqueness while serving the community in innovative ways.
These bookshops, with their rich stories and unique settings, deserve to be visited personally. Each visit offers a unique experience and the opportunity to immerse oneself fully in a world of stories, art, and history. The next time you travel in Europe or beyond, consider visiting one of these wonderful bookshops; it could turn into one of the most memorable moments of your trip.
Ig – @fairness_mag
