Portuguese Library

This library in Salvador spans three floors and houses approximately 400,000 volumes stored in glass-protected cases and behind metal railings. The collection covers centuries of Portuguese literary history in a carefully organized and maintained space.

The institution was founded in 1822 by Portuguese immigrants who sought to preserve their literary heritage after Brazil declared independence from Portugal. This establishment emerged from a desire to maintain cultural connection to their homeland.

Portuguese immigrants established this institution to maintain their language and literary traditions in Brazil. The space embodies how communities preserve their cultural identity and connection to their homeland through shared reading and knowledge.

The reading room welcomes visitors regardless of Portuguese language ability and maintains regular access during weekdays for research purposes. Checking opening hours beforehand is helpful since availability may vary by day.

The building incorporates limestone specially imported from Lisbon and displays statues of two famous Portuguese navigators at its entrance. These architectural details showcase the structure's profound connection to Portuguese history and maritime culture.