24 Otherworldly Libraries That Feel Like Stepping Directly Into a Fantasy Novel

18. The Lavish Biblioteca Joanina, University of Coimbra (Portugal)

Often referred to as Portugal’s Sistine Chapel of Books, the Biblioteca Joanina is a baroque masterpiece of gold-leafed grandeur, ceiling frescoes, and intricate wood carvings. Built in the 18th century, it is home to some of the rarest books in Europe, many of which are guarded by a colony of bats that help protect the collection from insects (yes, really). This library is so carefully preserved that visitors must wear protective coverings when entering.