Acqua Alta Bookstore
Acqua Alta Bookstore. This authentically Venetian “Libreria”, is renowned for the unique way it displays its treasure trove of wares.
Centrally located in the district of Castello and owned by Luigi Frizzo, the bookstore is named after frequent high water flooding; whereby parts of the collection of new, second hand and antique books, pictures, prints and souvenirs, are housed in a gondola, small boats and bathtubs.
To complete the experience, you can admire the many cats in residence and climb a “Staircase of Books”, found in an external space overlooking a narrow canal!
The bookstore has evolved into a sanctuary for literature enthusiasts and a must-visit for those exploring Venice; offering a distinctive perspective on the city through the enchanting lens of books and Venetian tradition.
Due to its popularity, especially in high season; consider visiting close to its opening or closing times and on weekdays.
Introduction
General Information
A poem in celebration
Getting there
Links (internal-external)
Don’t be put off by the rustic exterior – awaiting inside is a big surprise!
Acqua Alta Bookstore – General Information
The story of the Acqua Alta Bookstore in Venice, is a captivating tale that began in 2002; when Luigi Frizzo, originally from Vicenza, decided to bring a unique project to life.
Luigi’s creativity, shaped by numerous journeys to different cultures over the years; finds expression in an extraordinary place that authentically narrates Venice. The bookstore is not just a space dedicated to books, but rather an authentic representation of the lagoon city; a microcosm of Venetian suggestions with books of all kinds, unique furnishings and the friendly presence of cats.
Faced with the challenge of Venice’s frequent high tides, or “Acqua Alta,” Luigi ingeniously repurposed discarded boats and bathtubs from nearby buildings, to protect the books from water damage. This innovative solution has since become one of the bookstore’s unique attractions.
The bookstore hosts a wide selection of recently published books, used books, rare volumes, ancient and modern editions, as well as an extensive and diverse collection on the theme of Venice
The Acqua Alta Bookstore, has evolved into a sanctuary for literature enthusiasts and a must-visit for those exploring Venice; offering a distinctive perspective on the city through the enchanting lens of books and Venetian tradition. A popular spot for social media influencers and users.
Visiting the bookstore, is more than just a shopping trip; it’s a fascinating experience – a chance to step into a world where books come alive and tell stories of their own. It’s an opportunity to witness how the city’s challenges; have been turned into unique features that add to its great charm.
- The bookstore is open every day from 9 am to 7:15 pm non-stop. Access is free and no reservation is necessary. However, please consider that the spaces are quite limited. A staff member will welcome you and request that you carefully hand-carry backpacks or bags to avoid bumping into shelves or other people. On rainy days, to prevent books and prints from getting wet, please enter with closed umbrellas and remove any capes. If you enter with purchases of similar items (e.g., prints, books) made elsewhere, please inform the staff.
- Due to space constraints, strollers and wheelchairs are not allowed. To ensure easy access for people with mobility difficulties, contact them by phone and arrange a morning visit.
- Kindly note that the bookstore is accessible on foot only, with no parking or rest areas available. Please refrain from bringing food and drinks into the bookstore or its surroundings. Additionally, smoking, including the use of electronic devices, is strictly prohibited in areas associated with the bookstore.
- Photography is permitted, but please show consideration for the spaces and fellow visitors. On busier days, they kindly request you to move efficiently, creating room for other patrons. Access to stairs is allowed until 6:30 pm.
- Within the premises, you may find cats freely wandering. Small dogs are allowed in owners’ arms or suitable carriers. For safety reasons, it’s advisable to keep medium to large-sized dogs waiting outside. They do not intend to discriminate against any animal, but consider that cats are territorial and may defend their space.
Presentations & Book Signings. Due to space limitations, they cannot host book presentations. However, they can organise book signings for volumes related to Venice;
For more information, contact below in links section. Shipping. They do not provide a shipping service. However, you can arrange in-store pick-up with your trusted courier, to receive your purchases.
Store Access. Last entry allowed to the external book staircase at 6:30 PM. Last entry allowed to the bookstore at 7:10 PM. Access for people that need support or disability needs. To ensure easy access to the bookstore, it is suggested that you make an appointment by phone, to organise your visit in the morning.
Place your foot-steps on the book-steps
To celebrate this extraordinary bookstore in Venice – here’s a poem!
In the heart of Venice, where canals sing,
Stands a bookshop where gondolas gently swing.
Libreria Acqua Alta, a treasure trove so rare,
Books piled high, in a charming disarray, with care.
A labyrinth of stories, old and new,
Whispers of history, in every hue.
Cats lounge on stacks, in sunlit spots,
Guardians of tales, in cozy, quiet lots.
Gondolas and bathtubs, cradles of ink,
Where books find a home, on the water’s brink.
The tide comes in, the pages float,
A symphony of words, on a literary boat.
Here, the spirit of Venice is alive,
In every corner, imagination thrives.
Libreria Acqua Alta, a reader’s dream,
Where books and water, create a stream.
So step inside, let your heart wander,
Among the pages, you will ponder.
For in this haven of printed word,
The beauty of reading, is always heard.
Getting there.
C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, Castello 5176b, 30122 Venice. Tel: +39 041 296 0841. Email: [email protected]
It’s actually very close to the Santa Maria Formosa Square and its wonderful church, fine palazzo’s and good cafe-restaurants. Only about 15 minutes’ walk from St Mark’s Square or the San Zaccaria vaporetto stops. Alternatively, it’s a15-20 minute walk from the Ospedale vaporetto stop on the north coast of Venice. The closest canals are Rio di San Giovanni Laterano and Rio della Tetta.
Courtesy of Google Maps
LINKS (internal – external)
See my other related posts, in the category: “Art-Music-Literature (General)”
“Castello – District and Attractions”
YouTube Video: Showcase: ‘Libreria Acqua Alta’ (youtube.com)
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