Biblioteca Guarneriana, Public library and industrial archaeology museum in San Daniele del Friuli, Italy.
The Biblioteca Guarneriana is a public library and industrial archaeology museum in San Daniele del Friuli that holds thousands of ancient books. The collection includes manuscripts on parchment and vellum, among them an original copy of Dante's Inferno and a 12th-century Byzantine bible decorated with intricate miniatures.
The library was founded in 1466 when Guarnerio d'Artegna donated 173 manuscript codices to the Church of San Michele. During the Napoleonic period in 1797, the librarian protected many works from seizure by French official Gaspare Monge.
The collection features a 12th-century Byzantine bible with miniatures combining Western and Eastern artistic styles, plus an original Dante's Inferno manuscript.
Visitors can join guided tours that are regularly offered or arrange private viewing appointments. It is advisable to plan the visit ahead of time since opening hours may be limited and the collection is accessible only with a guide.
The library survived the Napoleonic period in 1797 when the librarian protected many codes from seizure by French commissioner Gaspare Monge.
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