Biblioteca Malatestiana 🇮🇹

Step into history at the Malatestiana Library in Cesena, northern Italy, Europe’s very first civic library. Built between 1447 and 1452 by Lord Malatesta Novello, this UNESCO Memory of the World site was designed to belong to the local commune and open to the public rather than staying locked away in a private monastery or noble estate. Remarkably, it stands as the only early Renaissance library preserving its original building, fittings, carved wooden furniture, and historical codices for over 550 years.

Inside, you will marvel at a basilica-like layout featuring three naves separated by ten rows of white local stone columns, barrel-vaulted ceilings, and 44 Venetian-style windows built to cast optimal reading light onto 58 carved desks. Look closely at the desks to see family coats of arms and books still secured to metal rods with authentic chains. Outside the main entrance, admire Agostino di Duccio’s main doorway and a 1454 carved walnut door by Cristoforo.

Notice the pediment bearing an elephant emblem with the famous Latin motto stating that the Indian elephant fears no mosquitoes. Inside lies a tomb for Malatesta Novello alongside extraordinary collection items ranging from ancient Greek classics to medieval illuminated Bibles.

What to see at Biblioteca Malatestiana

• Europe's first civic library, inscribed in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register
• Original Renaissance hall with three naves, local stone columns, and barrel-vaulted ceilings
• Historical wooden desks featuring carved coats of arms and books anchored by metal chains
• Carved 1454 walnut entrance door crafted by sculptor Cristoforo from San Giovanni in Persiceto
• Pediment carving displaying the Malatesta elephant emblem and Latin motto

Visiting tips

Look closely at the desk ends and floor tiles to spot carved, painted, and inscribed memorials dedicated to founder Malatesta Novello.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Biblioteca Malatestiana is easy to reach on Cesena’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cesena travel guide.