Bologna, October 14, 2025 – The Nanni bookshop celebrates its 200th anniversary. It is known as the oldest in Bologna, founded in 1825 by the Marchesi family. Heir to the Antica Stamperia della Colomba, which had been transformed into an antiquarian bookshop in the 19th century, it was acquired in 1928 by Arnaldo Nanni, who equipped it with the characteristic 1920s “Parisian stalls” under the Portico della Morte.
History
Since the Second World War, Libreria Nanni has promoted numerous high-quality initiatives to further raise public awareness of antiquarian book sales. To this end, it has initiated a search for rare texts, coupled with an editorial policy that has allowed the reprinting of works on philosophy, medicine, natural sciences, engineering, and literature. Over time, this has created a veritable “cultural repository,” represented by the permanent presence of thousands of rare works and pieces of scientific and literary interest.
Three Generations of Bolognese Booksellers
The Nannis' story is one of family and passion. Arnaldo, the founder, began working as a child, transporting eggs on his bicycle, but never stopped reading. His son Nerio, a contemporary art dealer, opened a gallery next to the bookstore and then devoted himself entirely to books. Today, Andrea continues the work of his predecessors, with the same dedication and a modern vision of the profession.
From Pasolini to Dalla: the bookshop as a place of culture
Over time, the Nanni bookshop has become a hub for intellectuals, writers, and artists. Pier Paolo Pasolini cited it among his fondest memories of Bologna, while Enzo Biagi, Umberto Eco, Giovanni Spadolini, and Dario Fo were regular visitors. Lucio Dalla, who loved to linger under the Portico of Death, often brought friends and collaborators there.Italian through passion! Choose from ART, HISTORY or LITERATURE option
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