A new gem has joined the ranks of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Previously, we marveled at the Strahov Library in the Czech Republic, but now, the spotlight turns to a stunning collection housed within the Benedictine Abbey of Admont in Austria. This magnificent library is the culmination of centuries of diligent cultural book collection, tracing its esteemed origins back to the nineteenth century when it was regarded as one of the wonders of the world.
The library’s grandeur is undeniable. Its rooms, resembling a palace of books, were constructed in 1776 as part of the religious complex to accommodate the collection. Among its remarkable features are a series of domes adorned with frescoes by Bartolomeo Altomonte, depicting the stages of human knowledge with intricate detail. The setting highlights the significance of its collection, which boasts 200,000 books, ancient manuscripts, and early prints from before the sixteenth century.
Located in the federal state of Styria on the banks of the river Enns, Admont Abbey has a rich history. Although the Abbey was established in 1074, the library building came much later. From the start, it was renowned for its cultural contributions and educational pursuits. Remarkably, the library survived a devastating fire in 1865 that destroyed the rest of the complex. Today, visitors can explore this historic library, which continues its mission of spreading knowledge and culture without pause.