Biblioteca Universitaria Alessandrina
Corso del Rinascimento, 40, 00186 Roma RM
Rating: 5.0 ★ (32 ratings)
Details
Biblioteca Universitaria Alessandrina is a historic Roman library, founded in 1667 by Pope Alexander VII to serve as the main library for the Studium Urbis, Rome's then-university. The initial design for parts of the library, including a grand monumental hall adjacent to the Church of Sant'Ivo within the Palazzo della Sapienza, was conceived by the eminent architect Francesco Borromini. Today, it continues its legacy as a prominent state public and conservation library, acting as the primary library for Sapienza University and standing as a significant cultural landmark in central Rome, distinguished by its profound historical roots and impressive collections.
The library boasts an extensive collection, housing approximately 1.5 million volumes, alongside precious manuscripts, autograph materials, and a diverse range of historical and archival documents. Its holdings also encompass a wealth of maps, photographs, and periodicals, covering numerous disciplines and historical periods. A notable feature is its comprehensive collection of publications from the Papal State since 1815, offering an invaluable record of regional printing history. Multiple reading rooms are available, catering to various research needs, from traditional manuscript study to accessing digital resources.
This venerable institution is particularly well-suited for academic researchers and scholars focusing on historical, humanistic, and juridical studies. It serves as an essential resource for those delving into Italian academic research and the preservation of knowledge. Visitors wishing to explore its vast resources should allocate ample time to navigate the different subject areas and locate specific materials, making it an ideal destination for in-depth intellectual pursuits and anyone with a keen interest in historical documentation.
Location
Contact
+39 06 6723 5600 | https://archiviodistatoroma.cultura.gov.it/
Comments
Library of the Studium Urbis or Sapienza (Palazzo Sapienza not surprisingly), a beautiful and spacious monumental hall designed by Borromini.
Graduate students presented their theses here, printed on very large sheets and with beautiful title pages, still preserved in the library.
I invite you to visit this incredible work, and of course, the nearby church.
ENGLISH: It was founded by Alexander VII Chigi, the famous Pope who had numerous architectural collaborations with Borromini, the latter architect of the complex and in particular the fabulous church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza. Library of the Studium Urbis or Sapienza (Palazzo Sapienza not surprisingly), a beautiful and spacious monumental hall designed by Borromini. The undergraduates presented their theses here, printed in very large sheets and with very beautiful title pages, still preserved in the library. I invite you to visit this amazing work, and of course the nearby church as well.
The bookcases, designed by Borromini, are decorated at the top with mountains, stars, and laurel wreaths representing the heraldic coats of arms of the Chigi family.
A visit is obviously not to miss the opportunity to observe up close the masterpiece of the brilliant Maestro Borromini, the Church of Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza, with its courtyard and its marvelous and iconic bell tower.
Furthermore, inside the Library there is a technical drawing of Borromini's façade—a real treat!
Today, the Sala Alessandrina is a place of singular beauty and hosts conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events.