Palazzo Nuovo Biblioteca Angelo Mai
A free, hidden gem in Bergamo's Citta Alta, offering serene historic library rooms and antique globes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter for study and exploration
Palazzo Nuovo Biblioteca Angelo Mai
Best Time
Quieter for study and exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, hidden gem in Bergamo's Citta Alta, offering serene historic library rooms and antique globes.
"A quiet, free, and amazingly useful place that motivates a lot."
🤫 Ask at Reception
Head to reception upon arrival and ask to go upstairs for the library rooms.
📚 Free Entry for All
Enjoy this hidden gem for free! It's a great spot for students and book lovers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Library Rooms
Upstairs
Discover beautifully preserved library rooms, a quiet escape with a rich historical ambiance.

Antique Globes
Upstairs Library
Marvel at two magnificent antique globes, a fascinating testament to past cartography.

Peaceful Study Environment
Experience a motivating and quiet space perfect for studying or focused work.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Quiet Study Haven
A Glimpse of History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Ask at Reception
Head to reception upon arrival and ask to go upstairs for the library rooms.
📚 Free Entry for All
Enjoy this hidden gem for free! It's a great spot for students and book lovers.
💡 Motivating Study Spot
If you need to focus, this library offers a truly motivating and quiet environment.
📸 Beautiful Facade
Don't miss the facade, especially when lit up at night, showcasing its detailed beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Ask at Reception
Head to reception upon arrival and ask to go upstairs for the library rooms.
📚 Free Entry for All
Enjoy this hidden gem for free! It's a great spot for students and book lovers.
💡 Motivating Study Spot
If you need to focus, this library offers a truly motivating and quiet environment.
📸 Beautiful Facade
Don't miss the facade, especially when lit up at night, showcasing its detailed beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Palazzo Nuovo Biblioteca Angelo Mai as a free, hidden gem offering a peaceful study environment and a glimpse into history with its beautiful library rooms and antique globes. While a quick visit, it's highly recommended for its unique charm and quiet atmosphere.
"When entering the building go to the reception and ask if you can go upstairs. Here you will find an old library and especially the two old globes are worth a view. The visit only takes a few minutes. It is not a must see in Citta Alta, but nice to have on your bucket list:-)"
Martin Andreassen
"It is a very nice and quiet place to study and work. I really enjoyed my time there and focused on my work very well. It motivates a lot. It is a free and amazingly useful place in this city👌 librarians also speak English."
cansu sonmez
"Hidden gem you can visit for free when you ask at the reception. Upstairs you will find two beautifull historic library rooms"
Olaf van der Hee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palazzo Nuovo is located in Citta Alta, Bergamo. You can reach Citta Alta via the funicular from Città Bassa or by bus. Once in Citta Alta, it's a short walk to the Palazzo Nuovo.
Yes, it's situated in a prominent square in Citta Alta, making it relatively easy to locate. Look for its impressive facade.
The funicular from Città Bassa is a popular way to reach Citta Alta. Several bus lines also serve the upper city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the library rooms is free. You just need to ask at the reception desk if you can go upstairs.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally accessible during daytime hours. It's best to inquire at the reception upon arrival.
Absolutely! It's a highly recommended spot for studying and working due to its quiet and motivating atmosphere.
The library is free to visit. Visitors are welcome to explore the historic rooms and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the beautiful historic library rooms and the two impressive antique globes. It's a quick but rewarding visit.
A visit usually only takes a few minutes to see the main highlights, making it a perfect addition to your Citta Alta itinerary.
While photography might be restricted inside the library rooms, the exterior facade is beautiful, especially when lit at night.
It's advisable to be discreet with photography inside the library to respect the quiet study environment. Always check for posted rules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Citta Alta has numerous cafes and restaurants offering local Bergamo cuisine. You can find options for a quick bite or a full meal.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside libraries to preserve the books and maintain a clean environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The facade of the building is very photogenic, especially with its detailed architecture. The surrounding Piazza Vecchia also offers great photo opportunities.
Photography inside historic libraries can be restricted. It's best to check for signage or ask permission from the staff before taking pictures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit short and sweet, focusing on the most visually interesting elements like the globes. It's a good way to introduce children to historical spaces without overwhelming them. The free entry also makes it an easy addition to a day of exploring Citta Alta.
📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
This is a place to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the preservation of historical artifacts. The quiet ambiance is perfect for reflecting on the centuries of learning that have taken place within these walls. It's a chance to experience a less-crowded, more intimate side of Bergamo's rich cultural heritage.
💻 Digital Nomads & Students
The helpful librarians, who speak English, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere for international visitors. It's a unique alternative to typical cafes or co-working spaces, offering a blend of productivity and historical charm. Just remember to be respectful of others who are also using the space for study.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Library
Among the most striking features are the two antique globes. These are not just decorative items but significant historical artifacts, showcasing the cartography and worldviews of their time. The sheer scale and detail of these globes are often highlighted by visitors as a must-see element of the library. The entire experience is relatively brief, often taking just a few minutes, but it leaves a lasting impression of historical richness.
Beyond the visual appeal, the library also serves as a peaceful study environment. Many students and remote workers find the quiet and focused atmosphere incredibly motivating. The librarians are known to be helpful and accommodating, even speaking English, which is a great plus for international visitors.
A Free Gem in Citta Alta
While it might not be a primary destination for everyone, it's highly recommended to add to your 'bucket list' if you're exploring Citta Alta. The impressive facade of the Palazzo Nuovo itself is worth admiring, particularly when illuminated at night, highlighting its intricate architectural details.
For those looking for a quiet place to work or study, the library offers an exceptionally useful and motivating space. The sense of history combined with the serene environment can significantly boost productivity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit