Libraries may not strike you as key destinations to add to travel itineraries, but these fascinating buildings often house books, artifacts, and objects of real historical value. Not to mention, the libraries themselves are often examples of rare architectural styles that may date as far back as the medieval period. Check out this guide to three of the oldest libraries in Europe, each of which is well worth a visit.
Abbey Library of Saint Gall, Switzerland
This stunning Baroque-style library hosts many thousands of texts, some dating to the medieval period. While the library has existed since the 8th century AD, the current building in which the books are housed dates to the mid-1700s. It is one of the oldest monastic libraries in the world, and well worth a visit.
Melk Abbey Library, Austria
One of the most famous libraries in Europe, it’s said that the Milk Abbey library inspired the author Umberto Eco when he was writing his novel, “The Name Of The Rose”. Founded in the 1700s, the library holds many rare and valuable texts, including some that date back to 900AD!
Bodleian Library, UK
Founded in 1602, the modern Bodleian Library is in fact a collection of 26 separate libraries spread across the University of Oxford. Many of these are open to the public (although some cost money to enter), and it really is impressive to enter and see the rows upon rows of ancient, highly valuable books.