Paris, the city of love, is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. However, there is another hidden gem that is just as significant and beloved by book lovers- The National Library of France.
Located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, The National Library of France also known as Bibliothèque nationale de France (BNF) was founded in 1368 by King Charles V. It is one of the oldest and largest libraries in the world with over 40 million books and manuscripts.
History
The library has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. It was initially created to preserve royal manuscripts and documents.
In 1537, Francois I took over the library and renamed it ‘Bibliothèque du Roi,’ which translates to ‘Library of the King.’ It was during his reign that it became mandatory for publishers to submit a copy of their work to the library-a tradition that still continues today.
Over time, the library outgrew its original location at Rue de la Harpe in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. In 1988, President Francois Mitterrand commissioned a new building for BNF called ‘The Grand Louvre Project’- an ambitious project aimed at transforming Paris into a cultural hub.
Architecture
The BNF building has four towers shaped like open books. The towers are made up of glass and metal and rise up to 79 meters high- making them one of Paris’s tallest buildings. The large windows allow natural light to flow inside creating a calm and soothing environment perfect for reading or studying.
The interior design is equally impressive with sleek wooden floors, modern furniture, and state-of-the-art technology that makes accessing books quick and easy.
Collection
The BNF has an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and documents from different eras, languages, and cultures. The collection includes ancient Egyptian papyri, medieval manuscripts, rare prints, maps, and photographs.
One of the most prized possessions in the library’s collection is the manuscript of ‘The Divine Comedy’ by Dante Alighieri. It is one of the few remaining original copies in the world.
Visiting BNF
BNF is open to the public and offers several services like reading rooms, exhibitions, cultural events, and guided tours. Visitors can access the library’s collections by obtaining a reader’s pass. The pass can be obtained online or at the library’s reception desk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The National Library of France is a treasure trove for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Its rich history, innovative architecture, and vast collection make it a must-visit destination in Paris. Whether you are looking for ancient texts or contemporary literature- BNF has something for everyone.