Step into the heart of Buenos Aires. Discover La Librería de Ávila. This isn’t just any bookstore. It’s a living testament to Argentina’s rich history.
La Librería de Ávila stands proudly on the corner of Alsina and Bolívar streets in the Monserrat neighborhood. Founded in 1785 it’s the oldest bookstore in Buenos Aires. Some even claim it’s the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world. Imagine its adobe walls and thatched roof. It witnessed the birth of Argentina.
Initially known as La Botica this establishment was more than just a bookstore. It sold medicinal herbs and supplies for gauchos. It also sold the first newspaper in Buenos Aires in 1801. It’s El Telégrafo Mercantil Rural Político Económico e Historiográfico del Río de la Plata. La Botica was a central hub. It witnessed the British invasions of 1806 and 1807. It saw the flight of Juan Manuel de Rosas in 1852.
Later it became known as the Librería del Colegio. Its proximity to the Colegio Nacional de Buenos Aires cemented this name. Domingo F Sarmiento Nicolás Avellaneda and Bartolomé Mitre frequented this bookstore. They were all major figures in Argentina’s history. Imagine them browsing the shelves. What revolutionary ideas were sparked within these walls?
The bookstore nearly vanished in the 20th century. It faced bankruptcy and its inventory was sold off. Thankfully Miguel Ávila a visionary bookstore owner stepped in. He saved the building from becoming a fast food restaurant. The negotiations involved even Jorge Bergoglio the current Pope Francis. Ávila revived the bookstore naming it after himself.
Today La Librería de Ávila holds treasures. Ancient Spanish grammars primary school textbooks from a century ago and even a Quijote edition in Chinese reside here. Alongside these historical gems you will find new releases covering Argentine and American history anthropology linguistics philosophy and much more.
La Librería de Ávila isn’t just a bookstore. It’s a portal to the past. A place where history comes alive. It’s more than books. It’s stories waiting to be discovered. It’s an essential part of Argentina’s cultural heritage. Step inside. Let the history envelop you. Let the books transport you. Experience La Librería de Ávila.