The Libreria del Mondo Offeso is much more than just a bookstore. The name itself gives away that you don’t just come here to buy books. Open for the past seven years in different locations, this bookstore is now located at the number 7 of Piazza San Simpliciano, on Corso Garibaldi and just a few steps away from the Acquario Civico, and it has become, over time, a socio-cultural hang out for Milanese over time and for every generation, where you can buy intense books, sip a fairtrade coffee and take part in fun and “politically incorrect” press reviews.
“All suffer each for themselves, and so the world continues to be offended” wrote Elio Vittorini in his Conversations in Sicily. An act of conscience and social responsibility that Laura, the historic owner,wanted to infuse into this Milanese pearl, where books are carefully chosen for their democratic values.
Next door to a bookstore of high social commitment, an equally responsible coffee corner has risen up. Here fairtrade drinks and food are served, with a variety of high end teas and coffees, original crafted beers, cured meats and local agricultural companies.
It’s best to sit inside, and savor the intellectual atmosphere full of retro vibes, flipping through the pages of a magazine or a book. In the Libreria del Mondo Offeso you come mostly to open your mind. There are many cultural initiatives and literary events promoted by the locals. Whether it’s the presentation of an independent book or a private concert, the Libreria offers an alternative space to the classic socialite Milan.
A revolutionary corner, genuine and exclusive at the same time: a sanctuary where you can escape from the overdose of trendy bars and fashion corners that Milan fed us up with by now. The intellectual place par excellence, where you can take that heavy, always busy Milanese mask off for a few hours and savor the pleasure of a hot cup of coffee slowly savored among the pages of Tabucchi’s book.