Visit colonial Mexico's first public library at Biblioteca Palafoxiana, which UNESCO added to the Memory of the World Register in 2005. The library was established in 1646, when Juan de Palafox y Mendoza, bishop of Puebla, donated 5,000 of his own books to the Colegio de San Juan, stipulating that they be accessible to everyone. The current building dates from 1773; today, it houses a collection of more than 41,000 books and manuscripts from the 15th to the 20th century. Put Biblioteca Palafoxiana at the forefront of your travel plans using our Puebla holiday planner.
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Tours to Biblioteca Palafoxiana
Biblioteca Palafoxiana reviews
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Being the first and oldest public library in the Americas is amazing in itself but the beautiful architecture and detailed woodwork in this room are worth the time to visit. And add on top of that...
Being the first and oldest public library in the Americas is amazing in itself but the beautiful architecture and detailed woodwork in this room are worth the time to visit. And add on top of that... more »
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If you love books you have to visit this place that is the 1st public library. in America and has a large collection that goes from the 16th century to 19th.
If you love books you have to visit this place that is the 1st public library. in America and has a large collection that goes from the 16th century to 19th. more »
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Wow, what an amazing place for the arts! Apart from seeing the oldest public library in the Americas, they have many rooms with free temporary exhibitions, a place to chill out, a Victor Hugo quote supporting the Mexicans in their defense battle against the French, and lots of chairs to chill out. Really nice, underrated space!
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Very small library, but for a library that has 375 years it's really well maintained. Woodwork is amazing, and the books in it are in really good condition. There is no one to give you information about the place. Pictures are allowed but don't bring a tripod you won't be allowed to use it.
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