Over 138000 books. That’s a lot isn’t it? Welcome to the Gennadius Library.
This magnificent building isn’t just a library. It’s a testament to Greek history and culture. It’s one of the most important libraries in all of Greece. Housed within its walls are over 110000 volumes. These cover Greek history literature and art. They span from antiquity to modern times. The library sits on the slopes of Mount Lycabettus. It’s nestled in the heart of Athens.
The Gennadius Library owes its existence to a remarkable man Joannes Gennadius. He was a Greek diplomat and a passionate bibliophile. Initially he donated a portion of his vast collection to the National Library of Greece. Imagine his dismay when he discovered his donation was poorly catalogued. This spurred him to find a more suitable home for his treasured books. He found that home here. With the support of American scholars and the Carnegie Corporation a stunning neoclassical building was constructed. It was designed by the New York firm Van Pelt and Thompson. It opened in 1926. The library is named after his father George Gennadius.
The Gennadius Library is not just a repository of knowledge. It’s a living institution. Since 1999 the library has undergone significant expansion and modernization. A new auditorium and an east wing were added. These additions house archives and additional collections. Much of the original Gennadius collection has been digitized. It’s available online for scholars and enthusiasts worldwide. The library actively hosts lectures concerts and exhibitions. It also publishes The New Griffon an annual periodical.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Gennadius Library is its focus on modern Greece. Joannes Gennadius was a visionary. He didn’t only value ancient Greece. He championed modern Greek writers and artists. His collection includes works by Nobel laureates like George Seferis and Odysseas Elytis. The library also holds original papers from Heinrich Schliemann the famed businessman and archaeologist.
The collection is extensive. It encompasses books manuscripts maps watercolors scrapbooks and archival materials. It’s a treasure trove for anyone interested in modern Mediterranean culture and history. Though the books aren’t for loan you can apply for a library card and use the reading room. You can even delve into the online resources. They offer a unique virtual experience. The Gennadius Library is more than a library it is a journey through time. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Greece.