Livraria Bertrand: A Portal Through Time and Pages

In the heart of Lisbon’s bustling streets stands Livraria Bertrand, a store whose legacy is bound not just by books, but by centuries of history. Since opening its doors in 1732, Bertrand has witnessed empires rise and fall, weathered the tremors of war, and even survived Lisbon’s devastating earthquake of 1755. Today, it holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest operating bookstore, an enduring symbol of Portugal’s literary soul.

A Vision That Spanned Centuries

When Pedro Faure founded Bertrand almost three centuries ago, he envisioned more than just a place to buy books. He imagined a sanctuary for Lisbon’s thinkers, writers, and dreamers—a place where ideas could flourish. Little could he have known that his vision would continue to shape the cultural fabric of Portugal for generations.

As you step inside Bertrand today, it feels like walking into a living museum of literature. Each room—dedicated to a different genre—invites visitors to lose themselves in the stories lining its shelves. The store's walls echo with the footsteps of readers past, from the casual passerby to Portugal’s greatest literary minds.

A Witness to History

Bertrand’s resilience is nothing short of remarkable. In 1755, Lisbon was shaken by one of the most catastrophic earthquakes in European history, leaving much of the city in ruins. But Bertrand survived, moving to a new location to continue its mission. Throughout the Napoleonic Wars, political upheavals, and economic crises, Bertrand’s doors remained open, serving as a beacon of stability in uncertain times.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Bertrand became a gathering place for Portugal’s intellectual elite. Writers like Fernando Pessoa and José Saramago were known to frequent its rooms, where ideas were exchanged, and literary movements were born. Bertrand wasn’t just selling books—it was nurturing the nation’s literary identity.

A Modern Literary Haven

Though steeped in history, Bertrand has never been content to rest on its laurels. In an age where bookstores face increasing competition from digital platforms, Bertrand has evolved while maintaining its timeless charm. Today, it embraces the digital era with online sales and virtual events, making it possible for readers worldwide to connect with this historic gem.

And yet, as you browse its wooden shelves or attend a literary event within its historic walls, you still feel a profound connection to the past. The store’s staff, deeply knowledgeable and passionate, often recommend hidden gems or recount the rich history of the authors who once strolled through its aisles.

A Global Gateway to Portuguese Literature

Bertrand’s influence extends far beyond the streets of Lisbon. With a vast selection of Portuguese literature translated into multiple languages, the bookstore plays an essential role in sharing Portugal’s rich literary tradition with the world. From Nobel laureates to emerging voices, Bertrand ensures that Portuguese authors reach an international audience, promoting the country’s culture far beyond its borders.

More Than a Bookstore—A Living Legacy

For both locals and visitors, Livraria Bertrand is more than a store—it’s a cultural landmark, a place where history, literature, and community intersect. Every visit feels like stepping into the past while remaining connected to the present. It’s a place where books transcend mere objects on a shelf, becoming threads that tie together centuries of stories, voices, and ideas.

In a world of fleeting trends, Bertrand remains a testament to the enduring power of books, a reminder that while technology may change the way we read, some places—and stories—will always stand the test of time.