Galignani is one of Paris’ many, but without a doubt most beautiful, bookstores. Located under the arches of the rue de Rivoli, between the Tuileries and the Louvre, it will welcome you with its characteristic green storefront. As you enter and the wooden floor boards creek under your feet, you will instantly be transported into a magical world of books. As an avid and very impulsive reader, I am a regular of Galignani’s and not a week goes by without me popping in to buy a new book.
I dare say this bookstore is somewhat of a landmark. The actual shop dates back to 1856, but the Galignani family’s lineage can be traced back to 1520. The Gaglianis were among the first to use the printing press so as to be able to distribute their books to a large audience. They also founded a newspaper in the 19th century, “ Galignani’s messenger”, to which several great authors (such as Byron) contributed.
Galignani remains, to this day, a family-owned company and if the pandemic has taught me anything, it is the importance of supporting our local businesses. Galignani is one of the rare bookstores in Paris to have such a wide variety of books in both French and English. I especially love using their “click and collect” option, which is an absolute life-saver when I am running low on time… and on books.
Galignani also often organises fun events: it regularly hosts book signings and recently launched a “book Advent calendar”!
