In Val Maira, time appears to stand still, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era. One of the region's intriguing attractions is Europe's loftiest library.
Nestled in Marmora (CN) in Val Maira, this remarkable library sits at an elevation of 1,580 meters and owes its existence to Father Sergio De Piccoli, an erudite Benedictine monk. The library finds its home within the spacious confines of the Marmora rectory, celebrated for its vast array of literary treasures.
Life in the mountains seems frozen in time, and a visit to this unassuming library leaves an indelible mark. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a modestly furnished room, serving as a multi-functional space with a bed, kitchen, and table all in one. Descending further reveals a labyrinth of rooms brimming with books, some exceedingly rare, forming a collection exceeding 75,000 volumes. They permeate every nook and cranny, some forming series so complete they're unmatched elsewhere.
Navigating through the corridors, visitors are enveloped in the aroma of aged pages and the weight of history. Each book holds a story, a fragment of knowledge preserved through time. Some volumes, now relics, evoke a sense of reverence as they whisper tales of eras long past.
As one wanders amidst the shelves, the library becomes more than a repository of books; it becomes a sanctuary of wisdom, a testament to the enduring pursuit of knowledge. Father Sergio De Piccoli's vision has created a haven where the past converges with the present, offering solace and enlightenment to all who venture within its walls.
Indeed, the highest library in Europe stands not only as a testament to human endeavor but also as a beacon of intellectual curiosity amidst the majestic peaks of Val Maira.
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