If you’re strolling through the alleys of downtown and feel a magnetic pull toward 153 Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, go along with it.
From Nov. 29, 2025 to Jan. 6, 2026, Rome will host an event that seems to have come out of a spell: the first pop-up store of L’ippocampo, christened the “Bookstore that isn’t there.”
In collaboration with the historic Altroquando bookstore, this ephemeral space is a temple for dreamers, a place where books are not just objects, but open doors to illustrated worlds you will never want to leave.
Eppocampo Edizioni in Rome: the pop-up store that is enchanting the capital city
This is not your usual chain bookstore. To enter here is to immerse yourself in the spirit of a publishing house that has revolutionized the concept of “beautiful books.”
Located just a few meters from Piazza Navona, the Libreria che non c’è was conceived as a refuge out of time.
You’ll find sought-after titles, special stories and illustrations that strike straight to the heart, all in a cozy atmosphere curated by a staff (the girls are so nice!) that knows how to convey passion for each and every page.
From Benjamin Lacombe to MinaLima: the (unmissable) exhibitions in the heart of Rome
The real “WOW effect” that is driving social media crazy are the indoor exhibitions. It’s not every day that you can admire the creative process of world-renowned artists up close. Inside the store you will find:
- The Great Gatsby exhibition: original plates and dreamlike atmospheres by Benjamin Lacombe, the master of French illustration.
- The Frankenstein universe: a powerful visual reinterpretation signed by MinaLima studio, the creative geniuses behind the Harry Potter film aesthetic.
Two exhibitions that make this space a true free-access art gallery, perfect for a different cultural afternoon than usual.
Calendar Events: meet your favorite illustrators and attend signings
If you’ve always dreamed of having a personalized dedication on your special copy, now is your time. The Bookstore That’s Not There is hosting a series of exclusive dates with the stars of international illustration.
Here are the dates to mark in red on your holiday calendar:
- Saturday, Nov. 29 (5-6:30 p.m.): signacopie with Miraphora Mina (MinaLima).
- Sunday, Nov. 30: double date with Miraphora Mina (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 5-6:30 p.m.).
- Saturday, Dec. 6 (4:30-6:30 p.m.): the illustration “dream team” with Benjamin Lacombe, Isabella Mazzanti, Marco Mazzoni and Sébastien Perez.
Please note: To gain access to the signacopies all you have to do is buy a book by the chosen author directly at the bookstore and get in line. A small investment for an eternal treasure.
Gatsby Party: a 1920s night in Altroquando’s underground pub.
Want the ultimate experience? On Saturday, December 6, from 10 p.m., the magic moves from the bookstore to the pub. At Altroquando‘s legendary underground pub (Via del Governo Vecchio 82), there will be a Great Gatsby-themed party.
Benjamin Lacombe himself will be in attendance!
Imagine sipping a craft beer or cocktail surrounded by art and literature enthusiasts in a setting that will make you forget you’re in 2025.
The “Bookstore That’s Not There” closes its doors on Jan. 6.
Besides the beauty of the books, there is one factor you cannot ignore:urgency. This space is a pop-up store, which means that on Jan. 6, as if by magic, it will close its doors forever.
The Bookstore That’s Not There is the perfect place to find the perfect Christmas gift, away from mass consumerism, or to treat yourself to an hour of pure aesthetic wonder.
Practical guide: how to get there, hours and useful info
So that you don’t miss a second of this magic, here are the technical details for organizing your visit:
- Exact address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 153, 00186 Rome.
- Area: Centro Storico, a 2-minute walk from Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori.
- Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Permanent closure: January 6, 2026.
- Directions: If you are moving by transportation, get off at the “Corso Vittorio Emanuele/Navona” bus stop (lines 46, 62, 64, 916).
- Accessibility: The bookstore is on the street, while the Dec. 6 party will be held in the Altroquando pub a few minutes’ walk away.