One of The Most Beautiful Bookstores in The World
Bookstores and libraries are places where you can get lost and find yourself at the same time. For centuries, these have been places where people can escape from reality and forget about their everyday problems.
As you already know, I write about magnificent libraries all the time. But there are a ton of absolutely stunning bookstores around the world as well, and today I’m writing about one of them. I think what you’ll see will astound you.
It is a true haven for book lovers and a location that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Have you heard of the bookstore known as “El Ateneo Grand Splendid“? That is one of the most well-known bookstores in Argentina’s capital city of Buenos Aires. This bookstore has consistently been ranked among the most beautiful in the world.
In 1860, this spectacular structure was constructed as a theater.”Teatro Gran Splendide” opened for business in May, 1919 . Beautiful ceiling frescoes made by Italian artist Nazareno Orlandi decorate the structure itself.
The venue, which could accommodate 1050 people, featured a range of theatrical productions as well as performances by the era’s most well-known tango dancers.
The theater began operating as a cinema in the early 1920s, and in 1929 Argentina’s first sound film premiered there.
In 2000, a firm that owns a chain of bookstores (there are around 40 of them) and the publishing house “El Ateneo” rented the former theater.
The structure was thoroughly refurbished and transformed into a music and book store. That project was under the direction of the architect Fernando Manzone.
The final result is more than magnificent, so without any doubt, the bookstore is becoming increasingly more popular with each passing year. Each year, it sells more than 500,000 books. Additionally, it receives more than a million visits annually from both customers and casual visitors.
Bookshelves have been put everywhere, taking the place of the chairs. The theater boxes have been kept, and there are chairs scattered around the bookstore so you may sit down and browse the selection before making a purchase.
The stage has been retained as well, but it is now a cafe where you can relax and take in this literary fantasy while sipping your favorite coffee.
Many original theatrical elements, including paintings, frescoes, curtains, consecration, etc., have been preserved. Despite the renovations, it will still seem majestic and magical when you enter.
You may add another item to your bucket list if you love books!
View the additional images below; I have a feeling you’ll be in love at first sight.
