In the heart of Jesi, a charming town in the Marche region of Italy, lies a treasure trove of history and knowledge: the Biblioteca Comunale Planettiana. Nestled within the majestic Palazzo della Signoria, this library is more than just a repository of books; it is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. With its vast collection of approximately 150,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and incunabula dating from the 15th to the 19th century, the Planettiana is one of the most important libraries in the area.
The origins of the Biblioteca Planettiana date back to 1859, when it was founded through the generous bequest of Marquis Angelo Ghislieri. His personal library became the foundation of this remarkable institution. Over the years, the library's collection expanded significantly, enriched by the addition of around 6,000 works from four religious orders' libraries in 1868.
The library owes much of its current grandeur to Marquis Bernardo Pianetti, who in 1906 donated an impressive 15,000 volumes covering a wide range of subjects from the 15th to the 19th century. This generous contribution led to the library being named in his honor, cementing its status as a cultural beacon.
Among the library's most prized possessions are the Bodoni edition of Homer's Iliad from 1808 and letters penned by the humanist Angelo Colocci. The library also boasts a rich musical section, featuring manuscripts and printed works by composers such as Giovanni Paggi, Francesco Morlacchi, and the celebrated Giovanni Battista Pergolesi.
In 1938, the library's collection was further enhanced by a donation from Marchioness Cristina Colocci-Honorati, who gifted over 2,000 drawings and prints, including notable reproductions by Salvator Rosa, Canaletto, and Rembrandt. The Marcucci family also contributed to the library's diversity with approximately 4,000 volumes and pamphlets on topics like religion, pacifism, and vegetarianism, featuring rare editions by authors like Jules Verne and Leo Tolstoy.
The library's historical archives are a treasure trove of public and private documents. The Municipal Historical Archive includes two main collections: a set of 517 parchments dating from 1211 to 1797, featuring the Letter from Emperor Frederick II to the citizens of Jesi, and a paper archive with documents from the 14th century onwards, including a 1497 edition of Dante's Divine Comedy.
Other notable archives include the Pianetti Archive, donated in 1976, which contains genealogical trees, noble titles, and correspondence from the 15th to the 19th century. The Azzolino Archive, donated in 1985, holds significant documents related to Cardinals Decio Azzolino the Elder and Younger. The library also houses the Colocci-Vespucci, Ubaldini, and Guglielmi-Balleani archives, each rich with documents that illuminate the history of Jesi and its noble families.
The Biblioteca Planettiana is housed in the historic Palazzo della Signoria, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Designed by the renowned Sienese architect Francesco di Giorgio Martini, the palace was built between 1486 and 1498. It was restored in 1930 and now serves as a fitting home for this esteemed library. The palazzo itself is a marvel, standing proudly at the highest point of the city and offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural splendor of the past.
Beyond its historical collections, the Planettiana also caters to modern readers with a children's library boasting over 6,500 carefully selected works for young readers up to 16 years old. Additionally, the library offers a biblionastroteca, a collection of audiobooks catering to the visually impaired, ensuring that knowledge remains accessible to all.
The Biblioteca Comunale Planettiana is more than just a library; it is a cultural institution that preserves and celebrates the rich history of Jesi and the wider Marche region. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of rare books, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this remarkable library is sure to be a rewarding experience. As you wander through its hallowed halls, you'll be transported through centuries of history, surrounded by the whispers of scholars and the echoes of the past.
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