L’Ippocampo Opens in Milan and Rome
L’Ippocampo opens its first temporary bookstore in Milan and brings back La Libreria che non c’è in Rome, with Marin Montagut, illustrated treasures and plenty of Christmas gift inspiration.
text Enrico Fragale Esposito
If there’s one thing we can never resist, it’s a beautiful book. Especially when it comes with enchanting illustrations, curious little details and pages that make you want to slow down and stay a little longer. That’s exactly the kind of magic L’Ippocampo Edizioni has always brought into our bookshelves, and now the much-loved publishing house is opening two new spaces in Italy, giving us even more reasons to fall in love with its wonderful universe.
First up is L’Ippocampo. Libri Illustrati, the publisher’s very first temporary bookstore in Milan, opening on November 12 at Corso Magenta 69. And there’s something rather special about this address: it’s also home to L’Ippocampo’s historic headquarters, the very place where its books are born. For the first time, readers will be able to step inside and explore the world behind the pages, discovering its beautiful illustrated publications in a space designed for browsing, inspiration and a little bit of wonder.
Running until January 31, 2027, the bookstore promises to be much more than a place to pick up a book. Visitors can look forward to a calendar of events and encounters with some of the publishing house’s favourite authors, as well as dedicated corners featuring official MinaLima and Marin Montagut products. And with Christmas approaching, we can already think of a dozen reasons to stop by: from beautifully illustrated books to special objects and thoughtful gifts for the little ones (and, let’s be honest, for grown-ups too).
Meanwhile, in Rome, La Libreria che non c’è is getting a new lease on life. Created last year through a collaboration between L’Ippocampo and independent bookshop Altroquando, the project is reopening on November 14 at Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 153, just a few steps from Piazza Navona. This time, it’s here to stay, becoming a permanent new address for book lovers in the Italian capital.
French artist and designer Marin Montagut, whose poetic watercolour illustrations and nostalgic vision of Paris have captured our hearts. His boutique in the French capital is one of our favourite stops whenever we’re in town, a little cabinet of curiosities filled with beautifully crafted objects and irresistible finds. We’re therefore particularly happy to see a touch of his Parisian universe making its way to Italy. Marin will meet readers and sign copies of his books, including Sotto i tetti di Parigi and his latest title, È sempre Parigi.
One more reason to visit? To celebrate the two openings, L’Ippocampo has teamed up with French illustrator Charlotte Gastaut to create two limited-edition tote bags, each featuring an illustrated glimpse of one of the two cities. The Milan version will be available exclusively at the new bookstore, while the Rome edition can be found at La Libreria che non c’è.
Two new addresses, countless beautiful pages and plenty of inspiration for Christmas gifting. Whether you’re looking for a special book, a little illustrated treasure or simply an excuse to get lost in a lovely new bookshop, L’Ippocampo deserves a place on your holiday shopping list!
