The Palafoxiana Library is a 17th-century institution with a place in the history books as the oldest library in Mexico. Dating back to 1646, the library has become a UNESCO Memory of the World site and holds over 41,000 books and manuscripts from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Wander along the majestic corridors of this historic library and consider the age of the books flanking the aisles.
As you walk along the long, vaulted hall, notice the elegant bookshelves that date back to the library’s inception. The shelves are made of cedar, pine and coloyote wood. Many of these items are original while parts of the site were reconstructed in 2001 following a couple of strong earthquakes.
Take a guided tour for a comprehensive overview of the history of the site and its collection. Among the highlights are antique and rare books held open in glass containers. Inspect the 14th-century altarpiece covered in gold leaf at the end of the corridor. Admire the painting of Madonna of Trapani by Sicilian artist Nino Pisano.
Note that the library was set up by Juan de Palafox y Mendoza, a 17th-century bishop of Puebla. He founded the institution with a donation of 5,000 books from his personal collection. The books of other bishops and schools were added over the following centuries.
Explore the rest of the Casa de la Cultura in the former San Juan College. The complex often holds art exhibitions and conferences. Attend dance recitals, musical concerts and theatrical performances here.
Visit the archive from morning to late afternoon Tuesday to Sunday. There is a small fee to enter this historic library.
The Palafoxiana Library is in its original location on the second floor of the former San Juan College in central Puebla. Take a bus to one of the stops on the surrounding avenues. See nearby sights, such as the adjacent Puebla Cathedral, Los Sapos Bazaar and the Dalí Art Gallery.
