LIVRARIA BUCHHOLZ

Rehabilitated and revitalized, one of the oldest bookstores in Lisbon has just revealed itself to the city filled with novelties. Among the greatest names in literature and books on current major issues, Buchholz is once again selling records, works of art, promoting concerts, and hosting conversations. And there’s more: an exhibition of personal objects belonging to authors, including manuscripts by José Saramago and António Lobo Antunes.

Between a return to the past and a leap into the future, Buchholz has a new lease on life firmly rooted in the present. Celebrating its 80 years of stories, the Duque de Palmela’s street bookstore presents itself with a fresh face, emphasizing renowned names in literature and thought, a heightened focus on giving space to new fiction authors, an expanded offering of foreign-language books, and numerous titles about the city of Lisbon. Graphic novels, books on visual arts and music also emerge with renewed vigor, complementing spaces dedicated to vinyl records and works by Portuguese artists – two commitments to independent curation led by Flur Discos and Icon Shop.

The three wooden-clad floors connected by a monumental spiral staircase are once again hosting cycles of conversations, concerts, and wine tastings, among many other initiatives. In an increasingly digital world, this is a commitment to analog and untransmissible interaction. The topics range from literature to major contemporary issues. After a day of study or work, the people of Lisbon have a new space for gathering and enjoyment.