Porto, Portugal | Government Reclassifies Livraria Lello as a National Monument

Portugal’s government is reclassifies Livraria Lello, one of the oldest bookstores in the country and frequently rated among the top in the world located in central Porto at Rua das Carmelitas 144, close to ,the Torres dos Clérigos, the highest bell tower in the city and the Jardim da Cordoaria garden, as a national Monument, recognizing its significant cultural, and architectural, combining in its structure Neo - Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, and boasting stunning wood, red staircase, stained glass, as well as a notable historical value as a cherished literary landmark.

The title that will enshrine, in law, the reclassification of this iconic bookstore in the heart of Porto from Monument of Public Interest since 2013 to National Monument is already in legislative circulation announced by the Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, during the ceremony that marked the 120th anniversary of that space boasting a crucial role as a pillar of Portuguese identity and cultural heritage, one of the city’s ex - libris, which annually welcomes about 1.2 million visitors. 

According to the Prime Minister, quoted on the Government official website, the formal act of classification should take place in the coming weeks, ensuring the protection and lasting enhancement of this building of reference for the collective memory and cultural identity of the country. 

The note also states that the process od reclassification of property was started in 2021 and aims to recognize its exceptional value as cultural, architectural and historical heritage of national relevance.  

At the ceremony, which also coincided with the 25th anniversary of the official opening of Porto as European Capital of Culture, the Prime Minister underlined that Culture is the basis for the development of a society, arguing that cultural progress must result from the mobilization of existing capacities in the public, private and social sectors, with a direct impact on the community and citizens. 

The anniversary also served to present a new phase of the project. The emblematic bookstore is now officially called Livraria Lerllo Porto, in a decision that clearly assumes the connection to the city where it was born, since it is the iconic space, and often, the first home of those who visit the city.

As part of this new visual identity, the brand’s official colour is now blue, a tone that will cross the entire 2026 program, a choice that is not only aesthetic, but that refers to the colour of the censorship pencil, a theme that will guide several initiatives throughout the year. 

In June, Livraria Lello Porto will expand with opening of a new space signed by Álvaro Siza, a famous Portuguese architect and architectural educator. 

Throughout the year, the bookstore will also launch a new collection dedicated to books censored at different times and for different reasons. The novelties also extend to the digital format, with the debut of the podcast “Palavrão”, which is now part of the cultural programming of the space. 

Livraria Lello Reclassification - Key Features and Significance: 

•    Iconic Architecture: Known for its intricate wood carvings, stunning stained glass ceiling, and the famous red staircase, creating a unique artistic space. 
•    Literary Heritage: A symbol of Porto’s literary history, attracting readers and visitors for over a century, and rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowwling. 
•    Cultural Value: Recognized internationally as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, reinforcing Portugal’s cultural identity. 
•    Official Recognition: Elevating it from a Monument of Public Interest (since 2013) to a National Monument formalizes its importance and commitment to preserving its artistic and historical integrity. 
•    Economic Impact: Supports cultural tourism and economic development, highlighting culture as a vital asset. 

Link 
https://www.publituris.pt/2026/01/14/governo-reclassifica-livraria-lello-como-monumento-nacional