The Prettiest Bookshop in the World
Built in 1906 by the engineer Francisco Xavier Esteves, the Livraria Lello building is packed with unique architectural details! Alongside some of the most iconic features of the space, there are now artistic installations and exhibitions that contribute to the mission of valuing books and authors.
There is, therefore, an abundance of reasons to visit the Prettiest Bookshop in the World!
Livraria Lello X Time: What Makes a Nobel?
José Saramago Room
Neo-Gothic Building
The Livraria Lello building is one of the most emblematic examples of the neo-Gothic style in the city of Porto and in Portugal, outstanding in its immediate surrounding urban landscape.
Staircase
The single most emblematic feature of Livraria Lello takes centre stage inside: the iconic staircase.
Stained glass window
A generously sized and brightly coloured stained glass window by the Dutch master Samuel Van Krieken embellishes the ceiling of the Prettiest Bookshop in the World.
Gemma Room
This is where some of Livraria Lello's most precious jewels are found: antique, rare and luxury books.
Vivid Voices
This is a place that expands the Livraria Lello's vivid voice as a cultural actor, hosting book presentations, gatherings and exhibitions.
Enchanted Forest
A room dedicated to the magical universe of children's literature. This Forest is visited by the Lello Bookshop Fairy, who enchants the younger ones with magnificent stories. This is where we organise a range of activities designed for tomorrow's readers.
Traces of Livraria Lello's history
Artistic Installation “The Face of Porto”
When you enter Livraria Lello, in the upper windows on the left, you will find the installation "O Rosto do Porto".