We Visited The Highest Library in Europe
In Val Maira it seems that time has stopped. One of the interesting places to visit is the highest library in Europe
The highest library in Europe I want to tell you about is situated in Marmora (CN), in Val Maira. It is located at an altitude of 1,580 metres and was established by Father Sergio De Piccoli, a Benedictine monk with three degrees. This incredible library is housed in the spacious Marmora rectory, which is renowned for its extensive collection of books.
Life in the mountains seems to have not changed much over the centuries and the visit to this humble library remains in our hearts: we enter an inhabited room with a bed, a kitchen, and a table - all in one - and then we descend into a series of rooms completely filled with books. Even rare. Whole necklaces, some of which do not exist more in other places. Imagine, there are more than 75000 books there! They are everywhere!
This library became famous when Emanuele Caruso's film 'The Good Earth' (By the way, this work was perhaps the first of this film director) was released a few years ago. We visited the premier with friends and were really impressed by the story of the monk and his creation, the library. That's why we visited it last year.
The real story told in the film and the extreme simplicity of this community were really impressive. In this world, there are still people who don't pay attention to appearances but are satisfied with what are and are happy!
The library itself is a treasure trove of knowledge, with books on a wide range of subjects, from history to philosophy to science. It's a place where time seems to stand still, and where the simple act of reading a book can transport you to another world.
The persons who run the library are kind and welcoming, happy to share their knowledge with visitors. They live a simple life, focused on their studies and their community. It's a reminder that happiness can be found in simple things, like a good book and good company.
Visiting the library was a humbling experience, a reminder of the power of knowledge and the importance of preserving it for future generations. It's a place that will stay with us forever, a testament to the enduring beauty of a life lived in harmony with nature and with each other.
Here is the website of this library: La Biblioteca di Padre Sergio
I’ll be really very happy if you like my articles and subscribe to this free newsletter here:
