Librairie des Colonnes
Tangier's oldest bookstore, a historic literary hub frequented by icons like Burroughs and Bowles. A cultural landmark since 1949.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing.
Librairie des Colonnes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tangier's oldest bookstore, a historic literary hub frequented by icons like Burroughs and Bowles. A cultural landmark since 1949.
"A must-see for book lovers and history buffs, despite inconsistent hours and limited English selections."
Verify Opening Hours
Hours can be unreliable; check before you go to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Language Focus
Primarily French, Spanish, and Arabic books. English selection is very limited. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Literary Hub
Immerse yourself in a space frequented by literary giants like Paul Bowles and William Burroughs.
Eclectic Book Collection
Discover a curated selection of books, with a strong emphasis on French, Spanish, and Arabic literature.
Architectural Charm
Appreciate the dignified appearance and artistic flair of this iconic Tangier establishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Literary Landmark
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Verify Opening Hours
Hours can be unreliable; check before you go to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Language Focus
Primarily French, Spanish, and Arabic books. English selection is very limited. :books:
Credit Cards Accepted
Convenient payment option for your literary finds. :credit_card:
Embrace the Atmosphere
Even with potential staff nonchalance, soak in the history and artistic vibe. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Verify Opening Hours
Hours can be unreliable; check before you go to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
Language Focus
Primarily French, Spanish, and Arabic books. English selection is very limited. :books:
Credit Cards Accepted
Convenient payment option for your literary finds. :credit_card:
Embrace the Atmosphere
Even with potential staff nonchalance, soak in the history and artistic vibe. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Librairie des Colonnes is a historic Tangier institution, celebrated for its literary legacy and as a former haunt of famous writers. While its charm and collection are appreciated, visitors note inconsistent hours, limited English books, and sometimes unhelpful staff.
"Since it first opened on Boulevard Pasteur in 1949, Le Librairie des Colonnes has been the premiere bookshop in Tangier, Morocco.
Literary icons from Tangier's past and new authors have passed through its door: Paul Bowles, Jane Bowles, Mohamed Choukri, Mohammed Mrabet, Tennessee Williams, William Burroughs, Tahar Benjelloun, Jean Genet, John Hopkins and others. Moroccan writers’ books are also featured at Le Librairie des Colonnes.
Le Librairie des Colonnes has been managed over the decades by a series of people: Isabel and Yvonne Gérofi, Rachel Muyal, and Simon-Pierre Hamelin.
When I visited the bookshop in October 2021, a long-time clerk at the front desk informed me that there are no books in English at all. I asked him where Simon Hamelin was, and he shrugged his shoulder that he didn’t know. This seems unbelievable as certainly this unfriendly clerk at the front desk would know something. Sadly, this famous Tangier bookshop now seems to be poorly run and it is staffed by unfriendly and unhelpful employees.
The Tangier bookshop underwent a major renovation in 2009 after it was bought by Pierre Bergé, the long-time business partner of clothing designer-couturier and philanthropist Yves Saint Laurent, who owned two villas in Tangier in addition to residences in Marrakech and France.
After Bergé's death, in September 2017, the landmark Tangier bookshop was bought by Moroccan businessman and art collector Fadel Iraki. Unfortunately, under his ownership, there are almost books in English for the numerous English-speaking tourists and residents, which is most regretable.
Even worse, there are no books at Le Librairie des Colonnes by Tangier's best-known expatriate writer and long-time resident, Paul Bowles, nor a framed photo. This is shameful neglect. The bookshop owner and its manager must correct this most unfortunate oversight and ensure that English books are always in stock.
The bookshop is attractive even with the current dusty façade on the exterior (in January 2020, it really needs a thorough cleaning). The shop is not huge, but it is well organized and dignified in appearance. It is popular and considered the best bookshop in Tangier. Residents, students, and tourists alike come here to buy books.
Le Librairie des Colonnes has a good selection of books in various languages, mainly French, but also some in Spanish and a few in Arabic. As stated above in this review, there is almost nothing available in English.
Credit cards are accepted. The two employees can be a bit nonchalant and are not particularly helpful or friendly, and one always wears his cap inside. This is not the era when most well-dressed gentlemen wore hats outside and always removed them when inside."
Kenneth Tangerois3 Maroc
"An international bookstore with a distinctive selection that exudes an almost overly artistic flair. It's a challenging world for bookshops, but this one is a must-see at all times."
Ismaël Goldsztejn-Seck
"The sign says 10:30-2:30 Mon-Sat, but don’t believe it!!! Walked a long way to visit…."
Monty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Librairie des Colonnes is located on Boulevard Pasteur in Tangier. It's a central location, easily accessible by taxi or a pleasant walk if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it a key stop when exploring the city center.
Street parking can be challenging in Tangier's busy areas. It's often more convenient to use a taxi or public transport to reach the bookstore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Librairie des Colonnes is a bookstore and does not require an entrance ticket. You can browse freely.
Opening hours can be inconsistent and have been reported as unreliable. While some sources suggest Mon-Sat from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, it's best to verify locally or check recent visitor comments before your visit.
Information on accessibility is limited. Given its historic nature, it's advisable to contact the bookstore directly if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
The bookstore primarily stocks books in French, Spanish, and Arabic. There is a very limited selection of books in English, which has been noted by several visitors.
While the bookstore has a rich history with authors like Paul Bowles and William Burroughs, some reviewers note a surprising lack of their works, especially in English, currently available.
Visitor experiences with staff vary. Some describe them as nonchalant or unhelpful, while others have had neutral interactions. It's advisable to be patient and persistent if you need assistance.
While primarily a bookstore, you might find some items related to local culture or literature. Instagram posts show it as a place where art and books intersect.
🎫 💳 Payment & Policies
Yes, credit cards are accepted for purchases at Librairie des Colonnes.
Some visitors have reported difficulty ordering books or receiving unhelpful responses when inquiring about special orders. It's best to inquire in person.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
+1Be prepared for a potentially less-than-smooth customer service experience and verify opening hours diligently. The real treasure here is the historical significance and the chance to stand in a place that has been a cornerstone of Tangier's intellectual life for over 70 years. It’s a pilgrimage for bibliophiles.
📸 Culture Seekers & Photographers
While the focus is on books, the overall aesthetic of the place makes it a compelling subject. Consider visiting during quieter hours to better capture the ambiance without the hustle and bustle. Remember to be respectful of the space and other patrons during your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Storied Past: Literary Haven of Tangier
+2The bookstore has seen several custodians over the years, each contributing to its story. From the Gérofi family to subsequent owners, the commitment to literature has remained. In recent times, it has been owned by prominent figures like Pierre Bergé and Fadel Iraki, with renovations aimed at preserving its charm while adapting to the modern era. Despite changes in ownership, the core identity of Librairie des Colonnes as a beacon for literature persists.
Today, while the collection leans heavily towards French, Spanish, and Arabic titles, the spirit of its past is undeniable. Visitors can still feel the echoes of the literary giants who once walked its aisles, making it a unique destination for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. It's a place where the past and present of Tangier's literary scene converge.
Navigating the Collection and Customer Experience
The customer experience at Librairie des Colonnes can be varied. While the bookstore itself is described as dignified and well-organized, some patrons have reported interactions with staff that were less than welcoming. Comments range from staff appearing nonchalant to being unhelpful or even rude. This aspect, coupled with potentially unreliable opening hours, means that a visit might require a degree of patience and preparedness.
Despite these challenges, the bookstore remains a popular spot, attracting residents, students, and tourists alike. Its unique atmosphere and historical significance continue to draw visitors. It's recommended to approach your visit with an appreciation for its legacy, understanding that the experience might be more about soaking in the ambiance and history than a seamless shopping expedition.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit