Livraria Sá da Costa, Lisbon
Livraria Sá da Costa on Rua Garrett in the Chiado district of Lisbon was established in 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.
History
The bookshop dates from 1913 and began life in another part of Lisbon before moving to its present location.
Some famous customers in the past included poet Antero de Quental, novelist Eça de Queirós and journalist Guerra Junqueiro.
As well as books visitors can find statues, paintings, old photographs, globes, maps, drawings and other wonderful curiosities.
The shop stays open late and is a delight for bibliophiles.
Other Lisbon Bookshops
The nearby Livraria Bertrand also on Rua Garrett opened in 1732, which according to the Guinness Book of Records makes it the oldest bookstore still in activity in the world. 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.
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.
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).
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 100, 1200-273 Lisboa
Tel: 21 135 7623
www: castroesilva.com
Hours: 9.30 am-12 am; 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).