Livraria Bertrand, Chiado District, Lisbon
The Livraria Bertrand on Rua Garrett in the Chiado district of Lisbon opened in 1732, which according to the Guinness Book of Records makes it the oldest bookstore still in activity in the world. A notice at the entrance proudly proclaims the Guinness Book of Records listing.
The shop is lined with blue and white azulejos tiles and has some beautiful wrought-iron features.
As well as books in Portuguese, this lovely bookshop has books in other languages including English. In addition, the Sala Fernando Pessoa is dedicated to the works of Fernando Pessoa - Portugal's most celebrated 20th century poet. Cafe Bertrand in the bookshop opened in 2017 and the menu is inspired by the cookery books on sale inside.
History
Founded in 1732 by Pedro Faure and Pierre Bertrand, both originally from France, the bookstore has been a significant cultural and intellectual hub in the Portuguese capital for centuries. The business even survived destruction of its premises in the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755.
It attracted the likes of such writers, poets and public intellectuals as Alexandre Herculano, Fernando Pessoa, Ramalho Ortigão, Eça de Queirós, and Antero de Quental.
Its historical significance is complemented by its pleasing architecture, blending traditional design with modern elements, making it a popular destination for both literary enthusiasts and tourists.
The bookstore offers a vast collection of books across various genres and languages.
Livraria Bertrand continues to play a role in the dissemination of literature and ideas in Portugal, hosting numerous events, book launches, and discussions.
Nowadays, Bertrand is the largest bookshop chain in Portugal with over 50 branches. There are stores in Aveiro, Braga, Caldas da Rainha, Cascais, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Espinho, Evora, Faro, Funchal, Guimaraes, Leiria, Ponta Delgada, Porto (the first store in Porto opened in 1938), Povoa de Varzim, Setubal, Torres Vedras, Viana do Costelo, Viseu and other towns and cities throughout Portugal.
Besides the Chiado store, Lisbon has Bertrand branches in Amadora, Amoreiras, Belem, Campo Pequeno, Colombo mall near Benfica's Luz Stadium, Odivelas, Picoas, Roma (the second store in Lisbon opened here in 1963), Vasco da Gama and other districts of the city.
Other Bookshops in Lisbon
Livraria Sá da Costa also on Rua Garrett dates from 1913. It has a large collection of antiquarian volumes, manuscripts, maps and prints as well as second hand books in a variety of languages including English, French and Spanish. The rare books date from the 15th to the 20th century and complement collections of old photographs, drawings and other curiosities in the shop's labyrinthine corridors. One of the largest second-hand bookstores in the country, it is located in the same building as Hotel Borges and also adjacent to Café A Brasileira, next to Largo Camões.
Livraria Sá da Costa is partnered with Livraria Castro e Silva another rare bookshop located near Picoas metro station. It dates from 1957 and was founded by the late Ezequiel Castro e Silva (1921-1990).
Ler Devagar in LXFactory has 1,000's of arty titles on sale over two floors. There are also books in English and other languages. The former printing shop also stages concerts, exhibitions and other events. There's a cafe/bar too for refreshments.
Chiado Hotels
Places to stay in the Bairro Alto and Chiado district include hotels, apartments as well as more budget guest houses.
Some recommendations include the historic Anjo Azul, the five-star Lumiares Hotel & Spa and the Altis Grand Hotel, also with five stars and a heated indoor pool.
Access - Getting There
Rua Garrett 73-75, 1200-203 Lisboa
Tel: 21 030 5590
www: bertrand.pt
Hours: 9 am-10 pm; daily
The Santa Justa Lift connects the Baixa with Chiado and Bairro Alto.
The most convenient Lisbon metro station for Rua Garrett is Baixa Chiado Station on the Blue Line (Linha Azul) and Green Line (Linha Verde).