The Bodmer Library – Cologny, Switzerland - Atlas Obscura
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The Bodmer Library

Cologny, Switzerland

A trove of ridiculously valuable prints and manuscripts under one roof. 

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The Bodmer Library Alpra ArazeL (Creative Commons)
The Bodmer Library Alpra ArazeL (Creative Commons)
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A few hundred yards from the mansion overlooking Lake Geneva where Frankenstein was written, sits another literary marvel, The Bodmer Library. This small collection of printed and written materials unites the exceedingly rare and extremely valuable. Inside are a range of original manuscripts written by the likes of Shakespeare and Martin Luther. There is even a copy of the oldest known version of the Book of James.

Even if historical manuscripts aren’t your muse, it’s hard not to be impressed by this historical and cultural treasure trove on display.

Know Before You Go

The library is about ten minutes from downtown Geneva by public transport. Be sure to check with the library beforehand if you want to view a certain piece, as works are often lent to other institutions. 

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August 29, 2019
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