Located on the grounds of the University of Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most prestigious educational institutions, the Joanine Library is a marvel that transports visitors back in time. This baroque masterpiece is more than just a place to house books—it's a living testament to the intellectual and artistic pursuits of the past, making it one of the most extraordinary libraries in Europe.
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Historical Gem
The Joanine Library, or Biblioteca Joanina, was commissioned by King João V in 1717 during a period when Portugal was flourishing from its wealth brought by gold and diamonds from Brazil. Named in honor of the king, the library stands as a symbol of his support for the arts and sciences. The library officially opened its doors in 1728, and since then, it has become a beacon of knowledge, holding over 60,000 volumes that span centuries of human thought and achievement.
One of the most remarkable features of the Joanine Library is its connection to the Age of Enlightenment. The library’s collections emphasize the era's values of intellectual expansion, scientific exploration, and artistic excellence, making it an integral piece of European cultural history.
One of the most remarkable features of the Joanine Library is its connection to the Age of Enlightenment. The library’s collections emphasize the era's values of intellectual expansion, scientific exploration, and artistic excellence, making it an integral piece of European cultural history.
Architectural Beauty
The Joanine Library is as much an architectural wonder as it is a literary one. Its elaborate baroque design is breathtaking, with gilded woodwork, intricate frescoes, and soaring ceilings that inspire awe. The library is divided into three grand rooms, each adorned with painted ceilings and walls lined with exquisitely carved tropical wood bookshelves.
The design of the library itself is a reflection of the high regard for knowledge during the 18th century. The gilded detailing, combined with the rich colors and masterful use of natural light, creates an atmosphere of reverence—reminding visitors that they are in the presence of something sacred: the wisdom of the ages. Above the shelves, portraits of great thinkers and scholars look down, as if overseeing the learning and research that have taken place here for centuries.
The design of the library itself is a reflection of the high regard for knowledge during the 18th century. The gilded detailing, combined with the rich colors and masterful use of natural light, creates an atmosphere of reverence—reminding visitors that they are in the presence of something sacred: the wisdom of the ages. Above the shelves, portraits of great thinkers and scholars look down, as if overseeing the learning and research that have taken place here for centuries.
Rare Collections
Within these ornately designed walls lies one of the most significant collections of rare and ancient books in the world. The Joanine Library houses works dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries, covering a wide range of subjects from law and medicine to theology and geography.
Among the treasures held in the Joanine Library are first editions of scientific works that revolutionized the fields of astronomy and natural sciences, rare manuscripts that reflect Portugal's rich maritime history, and volumes of classical literature. These collections serve as a window into the scholarly pursuits of the past and stand as a testament to the enduring value of knowledge.
Special care is taken to preserve these priceless books, ensuring that future generations will continue to have access to them. Each book is treated with meticulous care to prevent damage from light, temperature fluctuations, and the passage of time.
Special care is taken to preserve these priceless books, ensuring that future generations will continue to have access to them. Each book is treated with meticulous care to prevent damage from light, temperature fluctuations, and the passage of time.
Photo Courtesy of University of Coimbra
Photo Courtesy of University of Coimbra
Bat Guardians
The Joanine Library holds a unique distinction - it's one of only two libraries in the world, alongside the Mafra Palace Library - is its unlikely guardians: bats. Yes, you read that right, bats.
Mafra Palace Library
Every evening, a colony of bats emerges from their roosts within the library’s ceiling, flying through the grand halls. But far from being pests, these bats play a crucial role in preserving the library's precious books.
The bats act as natural pest control, feasting on the insects that could otherwise damage the ancient manuscripts. To accommodate their nocturnal activities, the library’s caretakers cover the tables with protective leather sheets every night, ensuring that no droppings sully the reading surfaces.
While the presence of bats may seem unusual, it highlights the deep care and unique methods that have been adopted to safeguard the library’s collections. These tiny winged creatures have been faithfully performing their duties for generations, adding an unexpected layer to the Joanine Library's already rich history.
The bats act as natural pest control, feasting on the insects that could otherwise damage the ancient manuscripts. To accommodate their nocturnal activities, the library’s caretakers cover the tables with protective leather sheets every night, ensuring that no droppings sully the reading surfaces.
While the presence of bats may seem unusual, it highlights the deep care and unique methods that have been adopted to safeguard the library’s collections. These tiny winged creatures have been faithfully performing their duties for generations, adding an unexpected layer to the Joanine Library's already rich history.
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Visiting the Joanine Library is a must for anyone traveling to Coimbra. The library is part of the university's general ticket, which grants access to several historic sites on campus. Tickets typically cost around €13-18 for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. It's recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as the library limits the number of visitors to preserve its delicate environment. Guided tours are also available, offering a deeper insight into the library's history and architecture. Be sure to check the university's website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and ticket prices before planning your visit.
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