10 The Oldest Libraries in the World
Table of contents
Nothing is as romantic as old books with their own stories of the past etched all over their covers. If you are a bibliophile, you can’t deny the rush of nostalgia that hits you with the first whiff of old books, even though you have not been around to experience the bygone time they boast of. What is better than beautiful, old books? Beautiful, old buildings that are home to these books! The oldest libraries in the world are a mystery waiting to be cracked. So many tales reside in their walls, we couldn’t resist listing down the oldest libraries in the world for you!
Oldest Libraries Around the World
-
Al Qarawiyyin Library
Founded in 859 by a woman, Fatima al-Fihri, Al Qarawiyyin Library, in Fez, Morocco, is a part of the oldest operating university in the world! It is also home to a few of the most treasured Islamic manuscripts. The originally existing manuscript room door had four locks, and each of the four keys to those locks was given to four different, important people. So, if the room needed to be accessed, all four people had to be physically present. Presently, this one of the oldest libraries is hidden from the public eye, but the Moroccan Ministry of Culture recently made an effort to repair its continuously deteriorating condition.
-
The Librije
A relic from the 16th century, The Librije is located in the St. Walburga’s Church in the Gelderland province of Netherlands. The Church is a relic in itself, dating back to the 11th The library within has had its interiors and exteriors unchanged, and most of the book collection remains chained to the reading desks!
-
Hereford Cathedral Library
The Hereford Cathedral Library, in England, is the only chained library to have all of the chains and locks still intact! The book collection ranging mainly in the theological and reference texts section, and dates back to 1100! Since the books are so old, they are the finest examples of ancient, immaculate handwriting. The impressive library is also home to a preserved antiphonary from the 13th century!
-
Francis Trigge Chained Library
The Francis Trigge Chained Library is nestled in the town of Grantham in Lincolnshire, England. The library, founded in 1598, was named after an Elizabethan Puritan clergyman who was the rector, or chancellor, of a nearby village. Trigge was a staunch supporter of the people and founded the library to help increase information and knowledge about divinity, liberal sciences, and clergy studies.
-
Royal Grammar School
Another chained library for England! The Royal Grammar School was founded in 1575, and has current bookcases that date back to 1897! In fact, it is so impressively ancient, the oldest book there dates back to 1480 with its printing roots in Venice!
-
Wells Cathedral
The remarkable Chained Library at Wells Cathedral is home to books published before 180. Collected by the canons in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, these books span the entire range of intellectual interests! There are books here for theology, science, medicine, history, exploration and languages, and by Nicholas Jenson, Vesalius, Abraham Ortelius, Erasmus, and more. This library is the embodiment of the phrase ‘tip of the iceberg’!
-
Laurentian Library
The Laurentian Library, beautifully nestled in a cloister of the Medicean Basilica di San Lorenzo di Firenze, Florence, Italy, was opened in 1571. It holds more than 11,000 manuscripts and almost 5,000 books! It is also home to the cultural inheritance of the Medici family.
-
Malatestiana Library
The Malatestiana Library in Cesena, Italy is not only the first European civic library but is also known to be Europe’s first public library. It opened in 1452, housed in a former Franciscan monastery, and is home to 400,000 books! The reading room is an architectural dream and looks like a church. It is one of its kind and has structures that have survived beautifully for over 550 years. The walnut door itself dates back to 1454 and was carved by Cristoforo da San Giovanni, a famous Italian painter of the early Baroque period.
-
Wimborne Minster
Before the Reformation, the room that is now the Wimborne Minster Chained Library was a safe haven for the Minster Treasury. The library, in South West England, was founded in 1686 and is the second largest chained library. The library came to be because of people who were uncertain of the fate of their religious books. The first donation was from Reverend William Stone who had witnessed his fair share of burnings of religious books by the authorities. He wanted to make sure his collection was kept safe, and hence, he donated them to Wimborne. Another local donor, Roger Gillingham, provided the library with another 90 books in 1695. He insisted that even though the books should be chained up to ensure no misplacements, the library should be opened free of cost for the ‘better class’ people of the town. This story makes us live it!
-
Biblioteca Marciana
The Biblioteca Marciana is located at the end of St. Mark’s Square, Venice, and overlooks the Piazzetta San Marco. It was named after the patron saint of Venice and dates back to the 16th The library’s monumental rooms contain remarkable reading areas, replete with sculptures and frescos.
Some of these oldest libraries are reviving their clauses to keep the public out. Plan a visit soon, and revel in the idyllic image that settles behind your eyelids when you think of the times they were built in!
Table of contents
Trending blogs for you
Recommended Articles for you
Discover the Thrill of Winter Adventures in New Zealand
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Winter in New Zealand is a fascinating season with a mix of snowy mountains, clear days, and unique experiences. It lasts from June to August, but the winter vibe varies across the North and South Islands due to […]
Immerse Yourself in Singapore’s Vibrant Arts, Culture & Science Scene
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 In the heart of Singapore’s dynamic landscape lies a hidden treasure trove—the vibrant arts, culture, and science wonderland. Singapore is celebrated not only for its stunning skyline but also for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. From […]
Affordable Travel Tips and Planning for a Pocket-Friendly Trip To Ooty
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 1 Embarking on a journey to the hill station of Ooty need not be a financial burden. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into practical and actionable tips to ensure your Ooty Trip is memorable and light on the […]
Balancing Mind and Body Wellness Retreats in India
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 A balanced mind and body play a vital role in supporting physical health. It can enhance your immune system, regulate sleep patterns, and even positively impact your cardiovascular health. However, with the hustle and bustle of daily life, […]
Dubai’s Skyline Secrets: Exploring the City’s Most Iconic Structures
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 The Dubai skyline is a stunning display of architectural wonders that truly capture the eye and ignite the imagination. The Burj Khalifa, rising like a radiant needle into the sky, proudly claims the title of the world’s tallest […]
Know All About Amritsar’s Golden Temple and Fields of Gold
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Amritsar‘s Golden Temple in Punjab is a celebrated monument renowned for both its spiritual significance and architectural beauty. This spiritual sanctuary, known as Darbar Sahib or Harmandir Sahib, attracts devotees and tourists with its golden grace. It offers […]
Explore the Rich Flavors of Gujarat’s Culinary Heritage with a Taste of Gujarat’s Delectable Dishes
Reading Time: 6 minutes 0 0 Gujarati food is a colourful mix of tasty vegetarian dishes deeply rooted in its culture. It is famous for snacks like dhokla and fafda and sweet treats like jalebi and basundi. Influenced by Jain, Hindu, and Muslim traditions, […]
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in January in India
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 As the new year begins, people make resolutions, and for many, the excitement of travelling is at the forefront of their plans. January in India brings a unique blend of excitement and exploration, marked by ideal temperatures ranging […]
Ayodhya Ram Temple: Uttar Pradesh
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 Ayodhya is a significant city in Uttar Pradesh with a rich history and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its ancient Indian civilization and religious significance, centred around the Sarayu River. At the heart of Ayodhya’s cultural […]
Ayodhya Ram Temple: A Symbol of Faith and Cultural Heritage
Reading Time: 5 minutes 1 0 In the heart of Ayodhya, a city that echoes the ancient tales of the Ramayana, stands the magnificent Ayodhya Ram Temple. The Ayodhya Ram Mandir stands as a symbol deeply rooted in the rich faith and culture. As […]
10 Places to Visit in Lakshadweep
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Lakshadweep is one of India’s smallest union territories, tucked away in the Arabian Sea like a hidden gem. Comprising a mesmerising archipelago of 36 islands, Lakshadweep is a paradise for coast lovers and avid tourists. Formerly known as […]
Romantic Getaways In Lakshadweep: Honeymoon Destinations
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 Embarking on the journey of marital bliss takes a delightful turn as couples increasingly choose Lakshadweep as their dream destination for their honeymoon. The archipelago, nestled in the lap of the Laccadive Sea, has become the latest sensation, […]
Lakshadweep Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Lakshadweep is a pristine archipelago of coral islands off the southwestern coast of India. Its untouched beauty, vibrant marine life, and unique cultural blend attract travellers. Planning a trip to Lakshadweep requires careful consideration of its remote location […]
Planning Your Dream Scuba Diving Trip to Lakshadweep: Everything You Need to Know
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Lakshadweep is a mesmerising archipelago tucked away in the Arabian Sea. It’s a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This tropical land is known for its beaches, islands, and abundant marine life. All of this together, makes […]
Lakshadweep vs Maldives: Which Of The Two Is The Best Coastal Destination For 2024?
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 When we think about idyllic coastal destinations, two archipelagos often stand out as dreamy paradises: Lakshadweep and the Maldives. Both boasting pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, these tropical havens have become sought-after destinations for travellers […]
Beyond Maldives: Why Lakshadweep’s Coral Islands Should Be Your Next Destination
Reading Time: 8 minutes 1 0 The Lakshadweep coral island in India is a beautiful destination that never fails to impress. It’s a collection of pristine coral islands surrounded by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Each island is a testament to nature’s […]
Ayodhya Darshan Guide: Unveiling the Sacred Sights of this Holy City
Reading Time: 7 minutes 0 0 The recently inaugurated temple in Ayodhya has attracted devotees from across the world with its grandeur and spirituality. This divine sanctum, steeped in cultural richness, is a sacred site for the Hindu faith and commemorates Lord Ram’s birthplace. […]
A Detailed Itinerary for an Ideal Day in Ocean Park
Reading Time: 6 minutes 0 0 Ocean Park, nestled on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, is an iconic marine-themed amusement park and one of the city’s premier attractions. With its diverse array of thrilling rides, captivating animal exhibits, and mesmerizing marine life […]
5 Must Try Rides & and Attractions at Ocean Park
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 Nestled along the vibrant coastline of Hong Kong, Ocean Park emerges as a thrilling haven, blending natural splendour with adrenaline-pumping adventures. As visitors step into this enchanting realm, they are greeted by a fusion of breathtaking landscapes and […]
A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Visitors at Ocean Park Hong Kong
Reading Time: 5 minutes 0 0 When planning an escapade to Ocean Park Hong Kong, understanding the nuances of acquiring Ocean Park tickets and navigating the Park is essential for a seamless experience. This Ocean Park guide serves as your compass, aiding in maximising […]