Rare Books
Rare Books, Manuscripts, First Editions, Luxury Books and Book Objects. Opened on 31 March 2022, Gema Room is a privileged space for those who seek books as objects of art, culture, pleasure and investment.
It is also an exhibition space, where literature lovers can immerse themselves in the stories behind some of the most unique works from around the world.
Culture Literature Art
Book Objects
Books are unique objects of knowledge, culture and art, and they can also represent exceptional investment opportunities. The value of each copy increases according to the particularities that make it unique, while the stories associated with it translate into a monetary value that is, at times, unimaginable.
At Gema Room, you can find, for example, a first edition of Memorial do Convento by José Saramago (available for €320), as well as some of the extremely rare first editions of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (available for €9,500).
First Editions
Livraria Lello has been investing in the acquisition of rare and antique books, authentic Book Treasures whose unique stories and characteristics contribute to culture and human thought.
This collection already includes remarkable works such as a copy of the first edition of Moby-Dick; or, The Whale by Herman Melville, which once belonged to Jim Morrison; signed copies of the first French and English editions of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry; a copy of the first edition of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; a first edition of The Picture of Dorian Gray, signed by Oscar Wilde; and a very rare copy of the first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, among many others.
“Não [é] por acaso a atribuição do nome Gemma, que significa "jóia" ou "pedra preciosa”
“Amy Winehouse deixou pistas da sua "abertura ao mundo" nos livros que foram comprados pela Livraria Lello”
“Lello Bookstore is a true sanctuary for literature lovers.”
“To any book-lover, this is the equivalent of a Willy Wonka golden ticket.”
Gema Room: Exclusive Collections
The value of Gema Room extends far beyond first editions and book objects. Beyond its remarkable collection, Gema Room preserves and shares the impact that books have had on the lives of great figures, publishers and cultural movements. Here, literature is not merely displayed — it is experienced, with its folds, tears and even lipstick kisses.
Amy Winehouse’s Personal Collection
Amy Winehouse saw songwriting as an authentic reflection of herself, carrying within her lyrics her personal experiences and a deep passion for literature. Visit her collection of more than 200 books and discover how they influenced the singer’s lyrics.
Brazenhead Books: New York’s Last Pirate
Behind the doors of a small apartment in New York City, USA, Michael Seidenberg concealed for more than three decades a unique space dedicated to books and literature: Brazenhead Books.
COIMBRA EDITORA, AB VNO AD OMNES
There are few lawyers, judges, consultants or legislators who would not be familiar with the name Coimbra Editora. The collection of one of the leading references in Portuguese academic literature, rescued by Livraria Lello.
FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions about Gema Room
Visits to Gema Room take place daily at two scheduled times: 12h00 and 16h00. We recommend arriving a few minutes before the start of your visit to ensure the best possible experience.
Gema Room accepts the following payment methods: cash, Multibanco, Visa, Mastercard and MB WAY. Please note that cash payments are not accepted when purchasing Ticket-Voucher Gema in the queue.
The value of the Ticket-Voucher Gema is redeemable against the purchase of books available in Gema Room.