Biblioteca comunale San Matteo degli Armeni, Public library near medieval walls in Perugia, Italy.
Biblioteca comunale San Matteo degli Armeni is a public library in Perugia housed in a U-shaped building set within an expansive park. The complex features preserved architectural elements from the 17th century and provides a quiet setting for reading and study.
The building originated in the 13th century as a monastery for the Armenian Basilian community. Later Baroque renovations introduced decorative fountains in the palace niches, which remain visible today.
The library holds the personal collection of philosopher Aldo Capitini, including the original peace flag from the first Perugia-Assisi march in 1961. This object connects the place directly to the nonviolent movement that started here.
The site is easily reached on foot and offers both outdoor seating and indoor reading areas for different activities. Visitors often find the morning hours quieter and more comfortable for concentration.
The grounds contain a Garden of Honests of the World established in 2016 that honors people from different cultures. This space transforms the library into a center for peace studies and interfaith dialogue.
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