Porto : Livraria Lello - One of world's most beautiful bookstores

“I solemnly swear I am up to no good”

Livraria Lello is one of the world’s oldest bookstores and frequently ranked as the most beautiful bookstore in the world. It is definitely a must visit whenever you are in Porto or Portugal. With its charming fascade and interior, it’s no wonder this bookstore is one of the top attractions in the city. This bookstore is also rumoured to be an inspiration for some settings in the Harry Potter books. But really, HP or not, this place is magical on its own! It’s hard not to stand around and marvel at its beauty.

I mean just look at that spiral crimson staircase. How beautiful is that?

This bookstore opened its doors in 1906 by the founders, whom are also brothers José and António Lello on Rua das Carmelitas. With its stunning architechure landmark, it was once a frequent hangout for Porto’s literary scene. It was the city’s first architectural structure to be built out of reinforced concrete. The neo gothic building, designed by engineer Xavier Exteves, features a spectacular stained glass ceiling, with gorgeous wood and plaster carvings all over, and ladders and rails to move the books around. Between you and I, I low key felt like I was Belle in the bookshop scene from Beauty and the Beast.

Look up the ceiling and you will see painted plasters mimicking carved, sculpted wood. And the stained glass is inscribed with the store’s motto “Decus in Labore” which translates to Honor in Labor.

There is an entrance fee however at €5,00 to be paid next door in the separate ticket shop. You can though redeem it when you purchase a book in the store. While most people come to ogle at the beauty of the store and not to get books, I actually bought a few myself. There is an extensive and interesting range of books available to choose from. They also range in different languages from Portuguese to Japanese to English, catering to tourists from all over the world.

And of course, got some little reads for my little one too!

Also, spot the two bronze busts by sculptor Abel Salazar of Eça de Queiroz (1845-1900) and Miguel de Cervantes, two giants of Iberian literature and bas-relief representing the founders José and António Lello. Inside the ornate glass cases on the ground floor are number of rare books and first editions.

And then upstairs, you’ll find in the back under the glass are first editions of Wizard of OZ, Alice in Wonderland, Pinocchio, Oliver Twistm Mme Bovary and more! The rare book section is inaccessible to most though, to preserve the quality of the books and papers.

So, Harry Potter?

What exactly is the connection? Well, JK Rowling used to live in Porto and taught English there from 1991 to 1993 and is said to be a loyal customer of Livraria Lello at the the time. Hence, the rumour of this bookstore being the inpiration behind the settings for Flourish & Blotts. HOWEVER, recently JK Rowling has mentioned that she has never stepped a foot in the store which is hard to believe in my honest opinion. But it is not my place to judge.

That being said, Livraria Lello has a room in the back dedicated to all Potterheads, filled with books and memorabilia which I personally love! Therefor I highly recommend you checking it out, regardless if it inspired JK or not.

If you’re planning on visiting, I would recommend coming early in the morning to get the tickets next door and wait in line. The queue to get in can be massive especially during peak periods. Now, if you excuse me. I’m going to continue browsing..virtually.