Top Five Most Beautiful Libraries to Visit in Europe

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For those currently studying their online masters in library science, what better way to enhance your education and really make it come to life than by planning the ultimate dream trip to Europe to visit some of the most beautiful libraries? Here in the United States, there are all kinds of gorgeous and important libraries worth visiting, but Europe can provide you with something that you just won’t find here. It can give you a new appreciation for all you’re learning in your library science degree.

Here’s a look at the top five most beautiful and historic libraries in Europe.

Wiblingen Monastery: Ulm-Wiblingen, Germany

For those who have an appreciation for Baroque architecture, this library in Upper Swabia just can’t be missed. The library’s interior is considered by many experts to be the absolute best example of Rococo architecture in the world. Besides the stunning library, visitors can also take in the monastery museum. The building dates back to 1714, so it oozes history and opulence.

Admont Abbey Library, Admont, Austria

Here’s another example of Baroque architecture, this time in Austria. This happens to be the oldest monastic library in the entire world, so you know you’re going to get a glimpse into history. Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to take in the many murals painted on the library’s high ceilings.

Trinity College Library, Dublin, Ireland

While beautiful libraries may not be the first thing that pops into your head when considering a trip to Dublin, Ireland, in reality, this is where you can find one of the most stunning and incredible libraries in the world. This library is currently home to the Book of Kells, which is believed to be dated at 800 AD. It is a scholarly library and is the largest one in the country.

The Codrington Library, Oxford, London

Of course, the list of stunning European libraries wouldn’t be complete without at least one from Britain. The Codrington Library in Oxford is an academic library with more than 185,000 books. Now here’s a really incredible statistic: of those books, one-third of them were actually published before the 1800s, which means you will be completely surrounded by history. This is one of those libraries that takes a long time to browse through, so be sure to leave adequate time.

Clementinum National Library, Prague, Czech Republic

And not to be outdone by the others on the list, the Clementinum National Library in Prague is yet another not-to-be-missed European gem. This library was named after Saint Clement and was founded in 1781. As you can probably guess by the year it was built, this one features that lovely Baroque architecture that is just so incredible to see in person. It features ivy-covered walls scattered through various courtyards, a commanding library hall, and works of art on the ceilings.

You Can’t Go Wrong

It really doesn’t matter which library or libraries on this list that you choose to visit, you can’t go wrong. Each has its own distinct style and an incredible selection of books.

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