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In mid-September, we explored the Biblioteca Publica Municipal do Porto – the Public Library. From the exterior, this mid-1800's building is not that distinctive, but the interior courtyard is another completely different story. The courtyard is a grassy plaza, surrounded by a colonnaded walkway, connecting the various interior rooms, and departments of the Biblioteca, and is architecturally beautiful, and also serene. The Biblioteca Publica Municipal do Porto is situated directly across from the lovely Jardim de São Lázaro, on Passeio de São Lázaro, and Rua de Dom João IV. Our driver/guide informed us that it was a great resource for historical research, and though we did not tour the actual facilities, we did spend time in that interior courtyard. That alone, made this a “must-see” location, even if the exterior architecture is not that exciting.…
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Date of experience: September 2018
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We found a description of the library in a 1908 Baedeker guide recommending the site. It was converted to a library about 60 years before that was written and now has settled into that life and doesn’t seem to register in 2018 as it did in 1908. But if you’re in Portugal and have the time it’s worth the visit — especially if you like a mix of modern use mixed in with some architectural antiquity. …
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Date of experience: August 2018
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lorrainem1957 wrote a review Jul. 2018
Bidford-on-Avon, United Kingdom306 contributions128 helpful votes
Quite unique in an old convent cloisters still there but with glass panels, interesting old mathematic and astronomy books. A copy of every book ever written in Porto housed at this library. Also a very interesting staircase which influenced Harry Potter writer, well worth a visit .…
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Date of experience: July 2018
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We just happened upon this place and wouldn't have gone in except for professional curiosity as myself and my friend have both worked in libraries. We were so glad we did! It was incredibly beautiful with murals from the time it was monastery/ You were free to walk around the internal courtyard and throughout the library. Definitely a lovely spot and it would be a nice place to rest and seek peace if you felt tired of sight seeing. There was also a children's' section so if you had kids, you could have a break while they played in the children's library.…
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Date of experience: March 2018
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The library is housed in an 18th c. convent and it is beautiful. A lovely small plaza is surrounded with gorgeous azuelos. Peace and quiet indeed. Haven't taken an official tour, but it is on my list. The library itself is small, but it has plenty of seats for a weary traveler and free wifi! I go there just to relax. Also an online catalog that they are actively working on to include all of their holdings. Many of these are not online, but the staff is very helpful.…
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Date of experience: March 2018
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