by InTrieste
Nestled in the heart of Trieste, the Umberto Saba antiquarian bookstore is more than just a repository of rare books; it is a cultural landmark. This weekend, after months of meticulous restoration, the bookstore opened its doors for an exclusive preview, offering the public a rare chance to step inside and experience its renewed charm.
Founded by the renowned poet Umberto Saba, the bookstore has long been a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts and historians alike. But time had taken its toll on its hallowed interiors, prompting the need for a delicate renovation process.
The restoration, initiated by Trieste’s Jewish Community, which owns the property, and supported by generous donations, has brought the bookstore back to life. Every detail has been thoughtfully addressed: the original flooring, vintage wallpaper, and select furniture pieces have been painstakingly restored. The 700 meters of shelving, home to thousands of rare and antique books, have been refurbished, and the lighting system has been upgraded to a soft, warm glow that complements the historic ambiance.
Despite its polished new look, the bookstore is not yet fully ready to reopen. Bureaucratic hurdles tied to the inheritance of Mario Cerne, the previous owner and guardian of the bookstore’s legacy, have delayed the official reopening until late January.
Today, December 22, marks the final day of this special weekend preview. Visitors can explore the bookstore’s revitalized space from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The bookstore’s restoration is not merely a facelift but a homage to its storied past. A favorite haunt of writers and thinkers, the bookstore has long reflected the intellectual spirit of Trieste, a city shaped by the legacies of James Joyce, Italo Svevo, and Rainer Maria Rilke.
