The World’s most beautiful libraries and where they’re located

If you’re anything like me, you believe that libraries are magical places. They’re not just repositories of books; they’re portals to different worlds, filled with history and beauty. So, grab your reading glasses and let’s take a whimsical tour of some of the most stunning libraries around the globe. 

This is a list of the most historically important and just as beautiful libraries in the world, with vintage, wooden bookshelves.

Abbey Library of St. Gall, Switzerland

St. Gallen, Switzerland, where the Abbey Library of St. Gallawaits. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a feast for the eyes and the soul. Walls adorned with celestial frescoes, wooden carvings that look like they jumped straight out of a fairy tale, and shelves lined with ancient manuscripts that are over a thousand years old. It’s like stepping into a children’s storybook and will make you stop and take a moment to soak in the atmosphere.

Piccolomini Library, Siena, Italy

Next, you’re off to Siena, Italy, home to the breathtaking Piccolomini Library. Nestled within the Duomo, this library is a real showstopper with its vibrant frescoes and stunning architecture. The artwork on the walls tells the story of Pope Pius II, and the colors are so vivid you’ll think they were painted yesterday. Grab a seat, take a deep breath, and let the beauty wash over you. It’s a perfect blend of history and artistry, making it a true highlight of any trip to Italy.

Royal Library of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Spain

Now let’s jet over to Spain, where the Royal Library of San Lorenzo de El Escorialawaits. This library is nothing short of majestic, tucked inside a monumental palace that was built for King Philip II. Imagine grand halls filled with ancient texts, surrounded by a serene ambiance that invites you to explore. The library boasts a collection that spans centuries, so you’ll feel like a time traveler from the royal family wandering through the pages of history. 

Admont Monastery Library, Austria

Onward to Austria, where the Admont Monastery Library will leave you utterly speechless. This Baroque masterpiece is the largest monastery library in the world and is adorned with celestial frescoes painted in 1776. Just walking into the library feels like stepping into a dream! With its marble halls and countless religious texts, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to pull up a chair and lose yourself in a book for hours on end. 

Strahov Monastery Library, Prague

Next, we’re off to Prague, where the Strahov Monastery Library awaits with open arms and approximately 200,000 books. This library is like a treasure trove, filled with ancient tomes and beautiful artwork that will make your jaw drop. The ornate ceilings and stunning woodwork make it feel like you’ve entered a literary wonderland. Take a stroll through the halls, and don’t forget to check out the globes and scientific instruments on display. It’s a place that sparks curiosity and makes you feel like you’re in the heart of history.

Royal Portuguese Reading Room, Rio de Janeiro

The Royal Portuguese Reading Room, Rio de Janeiro is a hidden gem and a must-visit for any book lover. Its stunning Neo-Manueline architecture is a feast for the eyes, with shelves that seem to stretch to the heavens. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, plus, the library hosts a ton of cultural events, so you might just stumble upon a poetry reading or an art exhibit while you’re there.