Nestled in the heart of Porto, Portugal, Lello Library (Livraria Lello) is a dream destination for book lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and fans of magical stories. With its enchanting neo-Gothic design, storied history, and undeniable charm, it’s no wonder Lello Library is often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Let’s look into its fascinating history, its connection to literature’s most beloved worlds, and tips to plan your visit.
A Brief History of Lello Library
Lello Library’s origins date back to 1869 when the Chardron Bookstore first opened its doors. It wasn’t until 1906 that the bookstore transformed into what we now recognize as Livraria Lello, thanks to the vision of brothers José and António Lello. Their love for literature and art inspired them to create a bookstore that wasn’t just functional but an artistic masterpiece.
Designed by architect Xavier Esteves, the building showcases a stunning blend of neo-Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco styles. From the intricately carved wooden bookshelves to the iconic crimson staircase, every detail reflects the Lello brothers’ dedication to creating a space where books could truly come to life.
Lello Library and the Harry Potter Connection
One of the reasons Livraria Lello has become so popular in recent years is its rumored connection to J.K. Rowling. Since Rowling lived in Porto in the early 1990s, fans speculate that its whimsical design inspired elements of the Harry Potter series.
Although Rowling has clarified that she didn’t explicitly base Hogwarts on Lello, the association remains strong. Many Potter fans flock to Lello to soak in the magical ambiance, imagining themselves wandering through Diagon Alley or flipping through spellbooks.
Tips for Visiting Lello Library
When we first visited Lello Library a decade ago, you could just walk right in without a ticket. And photos weren’t even allowed at the time! There used to be a cafe on the second floor, so we sat with a coffee and just marveled at the architecture. But times have changed.
Because of Lello Library’s popularity, there’s now an entrance fee to control the number of visitors. It can be a bit crowded and overwhelming. So here are some tips to make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
1. Buy Tickets in Advance Direct From Lello Bookstore
Purchase a Silver or Gold Ticket Voucher direct from Lello Bookstore’s website. It will allow you to select a timed entry, and the ticket is redeemable for a souvenir book. The Gold Ticket Voucher, at the time of our visit, was €15.95. When booking, it will ask for you to select a book title to exchange for your ticket. But you do have the option of picking a different book once inside. Just ask for guidance on the available voucher selection from someone who works there. Most titles are available in both English and Portuguese. There is also a Platinum Ticket available for €50 that includes priority entry and access to the Gemma Room.
2. Visit Lello Early or Late
If you plan ahead, you can grab one of the early morning entries and be one of the very first people to enter the bookstore. The library can get quite crowded, especially in the middle of the day. So if your goal is to get a photo of the crimson staircase, definitely book the first available entry. For a quieter experience, you can also plan your visit for later in the evening.
3. Book a Guided Tour
For those interested in the library’s history and architecture, guided tours are available. These often include fascinating details you might miss on a self-guided visit, such as the meaning behind specific carvings or the history of its famous staircase.
What to Expect During Your Visit To Livraria Lello
Our timed entry for our latest visit was at 9:30am, the second time slot available after Lello opens. It was a little busier, but still worth it. All those Instagram photos and reels you see where Lello Library looks empty, be forewarned, it doesn’t look like that in real life. It’s a popular place and there’s always a bit of a crowd. The famous crimson staircase might be empty for just the first 15 minutes or so after opening.
The Crimson Staircase
Lello Library is stunningly beautiful! Take your time to really pause in the crowd and look around. Notice how the stained glass ceiling, adorned with the motto “Decus in Labore” (Dignity in Work), floods the space with golden light. Below it, the crimson staircase—perhaps the library’s most iconic feature—seems to defy gravity with its swirling curves, inviting visitors to ascend and explore the mezzanine. Surprisingly, it is actually made of reinforced concrete, not wood. So it can handle the bookstore’s popularity and extra foot traffic.
Wooden bookshelves line the walls from floor to ceiling, their intricate carvings housing a trove of literary treasures that reflect the library’s rich heritage. Adding to its charm, decorative sculptures and reliefs, including busts of notable literary figures like Eça de Queirós, celebrate the deep literary and artistic roots of this remarkable space.
Is It Worth The Crowds?
In my opinion – absolutely! Livraria Lello is more than just a beautiful bookstore. It’s a magical experience that blends literature, art, and history. Whether you’re a passionate reader, a Harry Potter fan, or simply an admirer of beautiful architecture, this iconic bookstore is a must-visit when in Porto. When planning your trip to Porto, make sure to carve out time to explore this literary gem.
Leave a Reply