According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Livraria Bertrand Chiado is the oldest bookstore in the world. This place is an obligatory stop if you are walking through the Chiado district.
Not only can you find the latest bestsellers (in both Portuguese and English), you’ll also find most of the classics on these wooden book shelves.
”Taste our books”
This store was founded in 1732 by two brothers from France. The bookstore today is not at its original location from 1732. The 1755 earthquake destroyed the original store so they had to rebuild it elsewhere.
This store has changed ownership and location several times, but it still remains a favourite place for Portuguese writers and intellectuals of different generations.
This store has changed ownership and location several times, but it still remains a favourite place for Portuguese writers and intellectuals of different generations.
Bertrand was recognized by Guinness World Records in 2010 as the world’s oldest bookstore still in business, and is one of my favorite places to visit in the Chiado. If only to visit the facade with the azulejos.
In 2017, the bookstore celebrated its 285th anniversary and Bertrand Café was opened with a special concept: “Taste our books”. The recipes here are inspired by books and combine the beautiful taste of Portuguese products with a few (national and international) famous chefs, such as José Avillez, Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsey.
Today, Livraria Bertrand is a chain with 50 branches throughout Portugal.
Old and big
Livraria Bertrand Chiado is not only old, it’s also very big. The bookshop has several rooms named after Portuguese authors, with bookcases dedicated to their work. There is a long corridor through the bookstore, up to Fernando Pessoa’s room. Here you will also find the Livraria Bertrand Cafe.
I like to walk around in this bookstore. It’s such a wonderful thought that the best and most famous Portuguese writers have walked around here, like Eça de Queirós, Antero de Quental and Alexandre Herculano.
In the back of the bookstore you will find a nice little cafe where you can enjoy reading.
Where to find Livraria Bertrand Chiado
Address: Rua Garrett 73-75, Chiado
Opening hours: Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Sunday 11 am.m – 8 p.m.
