Teleki-Bolyai Library

Despre acest obiectiv

## A Treasure of Transylvanian Enlightenment The Teleki-Bolyai Library in Târgu Mureș stands as one of Transylvania’s most valuable cultural institutions, established between 1799 and 1802 under the guidance of Count Samuel Teleki. The Baroque-style building houses an encyclopedic collection of over 200,000 volumes, reflecting the European Enlightenment spirit of the 18th century. The idea of founding the library came to Teleki during his study travels to Europe’s major university centers, where he selected the most representative works of Western culture. ## Architecture and Remarkable Collections The library’s edifice impresses with its Baroque elegance, featuring restrained decorative details and harmonious proportions. The interior preserves the intellectual atmosphere of the era, organized to accommodate two major distinct collections: the Teleki collection, with approximately 40,000 volumes, and the Bolyai collection, with 80,000 books. Among the preserved rarities are 52 incunabula, valuable manuscripts, *princeps* editions, and first editions of fundamental works printed in renowned workshops such as those of Aldo Manuzio, Giambattista Bodoni, and Plantin. The library also houses 33 volumes of Diderot and D’Alembert’s *Encyclopédie*, illustrations by masters like Dürer, Rubens, and Piranesi, as well as the *Bibliotheca Classica*, featuring works of Greek and Latin classics. A special place is occupied by the complete collection of Teleki’s wife, Iktari Bethlen Zsuzsanna, comprising 2,000 volumes, which enriches the institution’s cultural heritage. ## Visitor Guide The Teleki-Bolyai Library is open to the public during the institution’s operating hours, offering access to permanent and temporary exhibitions dedicated to the history of the book and Transylvanian cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the reading rooms and special collections under the guidance of specialized staff. Access is via Bolyai Street no. 17, in the historic center of Târgu Mureș, making it a must-visit for lovers of history, culture, and Baroque architecture.