{"id":178053,"date":"2024-06-27T16:44:32","date_gmt":"2024-06-27T12:44:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.headout.com\/blog\/?p=178053"},"modified":"2024-07-18T08:07:05","modified_gmt":"2024-07-18T04:07:05","slug":"lello-library","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.headout.com\/blog\/lello-library\/","title":{"rendered":"Porto\u2019s Lello Library | A storybook come to life"},"content":{"rendered":"

Porto’s Livraria Lello, or Lello Library, is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Designed by Francisco Xavier Esteves in Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, it was opened by the Lello brothers in 1906. Since then, it has impressed both locals and tourists.<\/p>\n

The library features intricately carved wooden panels, a grand curving staircase, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and a stained-glass skylight. It’s a must-see attraction in Porto. The store’s popularity has soared due to its rumored connection to the Harry Potter series. Many believe Livraria Lello inspired some of the famous Hogwarts scenes.<\/p>\n

This guide will help you learn everything about Lello Library, including how to get tickets for your visit.<\/p>\n

Lello Library – In a nutshell<\/h2>\n

Handy information<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\u23f0 Suggested Duration:<\/td>\n1 hour <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\u2600\ufe0f Best Time to Visit:<\/td>\n9am<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\ud83d\udc9c Must-see:<\/td>\nThe Little Prince Theme Room <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\ud83d\ude87 Closest Metro:<\/td>\nS\u00e3o Bento<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Things to know<\/h4>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Type:<\/td>\nbookstore <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Architectural style:<\/td>\nNeo-Gothic and Art Nouveau<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Architect:<\/td>\nFrancisco Xavier Esteves <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Opened:<\/td>\n1881<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Must see <\/h4>\n

Gemma Jos\u00e9 Saramago Room The staircase (from top) The Little Prince Theme Room <\/p>\n

Opening hours <\/h4>\n

Daily from 9am to 7:30pm Closed on December 25, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1 and June 24<\/p>\n

Address:<\/b> R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal <\/p>\n

Why is it worth visiting Lello Library?<\/h2>\n

Architectural beauty<\/h3>\n

The Neo-Gothic building features intricate designs, including the iconic staircase and a stunning stained glass window.<\/p>\n

Artistic installations<\/h3>\n

Exhibits like “The Face of Porto” and “Livraria Lello X Time: What Makes a Nobel?” enhance the experience.<\/p>\n

Historical Significance<\/h3>\n

The library preserves traces of its rich history throughout the building. <\/p>\n

Special Collections<\/h3>\n

The Gemma room houses rare books, manuscripts, and first editions.<\/p>\n

Unique rooms<\/h3>\n

The Jos\u00e9 Saramago Room and the Little Prince Theme Room offer unique thematic experiences.<\/p>\n

Photogenic spot<\/h3>\n

Popular for its picturesque interiors, the library is perfect for photography.<\/p>\n

Lello Library tickets <\/h2>\n

History of Lello Library<\/h2>\n

\"Lello<\/p>\n

Founded in 1869 by Ernesto Chardron, initially known as Livraria Internacional de Ernesto Chardron, Lello Library in Porto, Portugal, has a rich and storied history. After Chardron’s passing, the bookstore changed hands several times until it was acquired by Jos\u00e9 Pinto de Sousa Lello and his brother Ant\u00f3nio Lello in 1894. They commissioned engineer Francisco Xavier Esteves to design a new bookstore on Rua das Carmelitas, which opened its doors in 1906 as Livraria Lello.<\/p>\n

Over the years, the bookstore underwent various name changes and ownership structures, eventually becoming known simply as Livraria Lello by 1930. In 1981, efforts began to classify the store as a Property of Public Interest, a process that concluded in 1994. Facing financial challenges in the late 20th century, Lello & Irm\u00e3o formed Pr\u00f3logo Livreiros S.A. and underwent significant restoration before reopening in 1995.<\/p>\n