Stories and News
Story time: get to know the oldest bookstore in the world
Heloisa Lima
Have you ever thought about taking a stroll and buying your favorite titles at the oldest bookstore in the world? Founded in 1732 in Lisbon, Bertrand Bookstore has held the title of the world’s oldest operating bookstore since 2011, as recognized by Guinness World Records. And with nearly 300 years of history, the place is full of remarkable stories and memories.
The story began in the first half of the 18th century, when Pedro Faure opened a bookstore on Rua Direita do Loreto, an area now known as Chiado. After ten years of operation, Faure struck up a friendship with the Frenchman Pierre Bertrand, who soon became a partner in the bookstore.
The partnership, which was already yielding successful results, became even more well-known after Jean Joseph, Pierre’s brother, joined the firm, an event that led the bookstore to take on a new name: Pedro Faure and the Bertrand Brothers.
After 20 years of running a highly successful venture, founder Pedro Faure passed away and the bookstore became known simply as “Bertrand Brothers.” With business booming, the brothers did not expect to face one of the greatest tragedies in Lisbon’s history: an earthquake destroyed almost the entire city and consequently reduced the bookstore to rubble.
However, without halting operations, the brothers continued serving their loyal customers near the Cathedral of Our Lady of Necessities. Only 20 years later was the original site rebuilt, allowing the bookstore to return to its origins at the exact same location where it still operates today.
The partnership, which was already yielding successful results, became even more well-known after Jean Joseph, Pierre’s brother, joined the firm, an event that led the bookstore to take on a new name: Pedro Faure and the Bertrand Brothers.
Today, the bookstore continues its journey, with more than 50 stores across the country, each with its own style, hosting various online and offline activities. Click here to learn more about Bertrand.
