The most beautiful bookstore in the world . . .

I would say that nearly any bookstore is wonderful, but my vote for the most beautiful bookstore goes to a bookstore in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Originally built as a theater in 1919, the El Ateneo Grand Splendid offers book lovers a truly unique experience, complete with romantic murals and architecture.

Facing the door at El Ateneo

Available at the coffee shop at El Ateneo
(Note: coffee in Buenos is superlative!)

Facing the stage at El Ateneo

Imagine sitting in one of those box seats, snuggled up with a book -- Spanish or English, it really doesn't matter any more.

Eden Mabee's post on what to blog about when you have the blahs led me to Bookshelf Porn, a site highlighting pictures of amazing libraries and bookstores  -- which reminded me of one afternoon when we took time away from traveling through Argentina to visit this bookstore.

Thank you, Eden.