SÃO LÁZARO LIBRARY

Arroios

In 1883, same year that the Orient Express was created, Lisbon’s oldest public library opened its doors, the São Lázaro Library, which for many years assumed the role of Lisbon Central Library.

Located in the Arroios Parish, seen as Portugal’s most multicultural library, São Lázaro, now a parish library, pays special attention to empowering the surrounding community, a good example being the many and popular courses of Portuguese for beginners.

But it doesn’t stand alone. The work they work is a complement and is complemented by the many local associations, which work for the same goal, as for example SOU Cultural Association, BUS- Paragem Cultural, RDA Recreativa dos Anjos, Anjos Cicloficina, Residências ao Largo, Juventude da Galiza, Monumental Gallery, Carpintarias de São Lázaro (Woodwork Shop) or the Pessoa e Companhia Association.

Besides being the oldest public library in Lisbon, which alone would justify a visit, the São Lázaro Library is also privileged to have a magnificent Noble Room, which has remained unchanged since its opening. With its pentagonal form, its shelves made of fine wood, the spiral staircase, the narrow mezzanine surrounding floor and the huge central chandelier, this room will impress anyone and it’s the dream of any Harry Potter lover!