Biblioteca Estense

The Biblioteca Estense, or Estense Library, is a treasure trove of rare books and manuscripts located in Modena's Palazzo dei Musei. Founded in the 14th century by the Este family, it holds one of Italy's most important collections of illuminated manuscripts, incunabula, and early printed books. The library's most famous item is the Borso d'Este Bible, a lavishly illuminated manuscript created in the 15th century for Duke Borso d'Este. Visitors can also see globes, maps, and musical scores. The reading rooms are adorned with frescoes and period furnishings, offering a glimpse into the scholarly world of the Renaissance. The library is not just a museum but a working research institution, so some areas may be restricted to scholars. However, the public exhibition spaces display rotating selections of the collection's highlights. A visit here is a journey through the history of bookmaking and the intellectual legacy of the Este dynasty.

Don't miss

• Borso d'Este Bible: a two-volume illuminated manuscript with over 1,000 miniatures
• Renaissance globes and maps, including a 16th-century celestial globe
• Frescoed reading rooms with original 18th-century furnishings
• Rotating exhibitions of rare books and manuscripts

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Biblioteca Estense

Cheapest way inModena Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local4.5★ · 20 travelers5–6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →Most bookedLunch and Tasting of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena4.9★ · 107 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$44 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePasta-making class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Modena5★ · 12 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$171 per personSee dates →