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Vatican Publishing House (LEV)

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Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)

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The Vatican Publishing House (Libreria Editrice Vaticana - LEV) is the official publishing organ of the Holy See, holding the exclusive copyright to all writings and speeches of the Pope. Established in its modern form in 1926, LEV is responsible for editing, producing, and distributing papal documents, liturgical books, and official acts of the Roman Curia. The publishing house plays a vital role in safeguarding the authenticity of the Pope's message by coordinating translations into dozens of languages through international licensing agreements. Beyond official decrees, LEV publishes a wide range of academic works on theology, canon law, and church history, as well as art volumes related to the Vatican Museums. Its flagship bookstore on St. Peter's Square serves as a primary point of contact for pilgrims and researchers seeking official ecclesiastical publications. In the digital age, LEV continues to expand its reach through e-books and online archives while maintaining its commitment to high-quality printed editions of magisterial texts.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C781014182326262117128
Rain mm7377695657342626708211492

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV) is the official publishing house of the Holy See and holds the copyright to all papal writings. It is a major player in the global religious book market, publishing works in numerous languages.
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Visiting
The publishing house's premises are generally not open to visitors as it is a working building. The books it publishes are available in the Vatican Bookshop and in many religious bookstores worldwide.
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Where to view it
There is no specific viewpoint of the publishing house building as it is located in a non-public area of the Vatican. The nearby Vatican Bookshop gives an impression of the publishing activity.
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Local products
The main local products are religious books, papal encyclicals, and official documents of the Holy See. They are available in printed and often digital form.
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Active season
The publishing house operates year-round, with increased activity around major church events such as papal visits or conclaves. New publications typically appear after significant papal addresses.
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Nearby
A visit to the Vatican Bookshop with LEV works can be combined with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums. The nearby Sistine Chapel is also worth a visit.

Geography

Coordinates
41.90240, 12.45710

Facts

  • The LEV holds the exclusive copyright to the Pope's words since 1926.
  • It was originally part of the Vatican Printing Press before becoming independent.
  • The publishing house oversees official translations into over 20 languages.
  • Its most famous retail outlet is located under the colonnade of St. Peter's Square.
  • Royalties and sales proceeds contribute to the Holy See's general budget.
  • LEV publishes approximately 200 new titles every year across various disciplines.

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Sights in the town Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (10)

Vatican Obelisk

Roman-era obelisk in St. Peter's Square, originally from Heliopolis.

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Saint Peter's Square

Piazza in Vatican City, famous for its colonnades and the central obelisk.

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Il Cuore di Nerone

Ancient porphyry sarcophagus in Vatican City, also known as Nero's Heart.

Maderno Fountain

Fountain in St. Peter's Square, designed by Carlo Maderno, one of two identical fountains.

St. Pellegrino Gate

Gate in Vatican City, part of the Leonine Wall, named after the church of San Pellegrino.

Saints Martin and Sebastian of the Swiss

Church in Rome, Italy, dedicated to Saints Martin and Sebastian, used by the Swiss Guard.

Terrazza Augustinians

Terrace in Vatican City overlooking St. Peter's Square and surrounding buildings.

Chiesa dei Santi Michele e Magno

Roman Catholic church in Rome, Italy, dedicated to Saints Michael and Magnus.

Arch of the Bells

Archway in Vatican City, providing passage between St. Peter's Square and the basilica.

San Lorenzo in Piscibus

Church building in Rome, Italy, dedicated to Saint Lawrence, near Vatican City.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the abbreviation LEV stand for?
LEV stands for Libreria Editrice Vaticana, the official publishing house of the Vatican.
Where can you buy books from LEV?
There are bookstores near St. Peter's Square and international online distribution.
What is the publisher's most important work?
The publisher holds the copyrights to all the Pope's texts.
Does the publisher only release religious texts?
The focus is on theology and law, but there are also works on art and history.
Can authors submit manuscripts there?
The publisher releases almost exclusively church-related and academic works after strict review.
Vatican Publishing House (LEV): where is it located?
Vatican Publishing House (LEV) is located in Vatican.
Vatican Publishing House (LEV): what is there to see?
Highlights include Vatican Obelisk, Saint Peter's Square, Il Cuore di Nerone.
Vatican Publishing House (LEV): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Vatican Publishing House (LEV): why is it worth visiting?
The Vatican Publishing House (Libreria Editrice Vaticana - LEV) is the official publishing organ of the Holy See, holding the exclusive copyright to all writings and speeches of the Pope.
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History & landmarks

St. Peter&#39;s Square — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
St. Peter's Square
A monumental square in front of St.
Gendarmerie Barracks — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Gendarmerie Barracks
The living quarters and operational center of the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City, responsible for public order.
Vatican Fire Station — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Vatican Fire Station
The headquarters of the Vatican Fire Brigade, responsible for fire protection and safety services throughout the entire enclave.
Postal Service Square — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Postal Service Square
A busy square near the Vatican Post Office headquarters, serving as a vital hub for postal and parcel traffic.
Oven Square — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Oven Square
A small square in the heart of the Vatican's service district, named after the historical bakery that served the city.
Saint Anne&#39;s Gate — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Saint Anne's Gate
One of the primary entrances to Vatican City, used mainly by employees and residents for daily access to the state.
Typography Street — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Typography Street
The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.
Bunker Access — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Bunker Access
A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.

More places

Palace of St. Pius X — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Palace of St. Pius X
A modern administrative building on Via della Conciliazione.
Bronze Door — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Bronze Door
The primary ceremonial entrance to the Apostolic Palace, constantly guarded by the Pontifical Swiss Guard.
Palace of Sixtus V — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Palace of Sixtus V
This wing of the Apostolic Palace traditionally serves as the official residence of the Popes.
Palace of the Holy Office — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Palace of the Holy Office
Seat of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, located right on the Vatican border.
San Damaso Courtyard — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
San Damaso Courtyard
The primary courtyard of the Apostolic Palace, where the Holy See's protocol receives visiting heads of state and diplomatic missions.
Domus Sanctae Marthae — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Domus Sanctae Marthae
A guesthouse for clergy and the current residence of Pope Francis.
Palace of Gregory XIII — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Palace of Gregory XIII
This part of the Apostolic Palace surrounds the San Damaso Courtyard.
Palace of Paul V — Vatican Publishing House (LEV) (Vatican)
Palace of Paul V
This palace wing extends the Apostolic complex to the north.