The origins of the library are inextricably linked to the history of the Society of Jesus. Founded in 1551 by St. Ignatius of Loyola as the "Roman College," the university quickly grew in prestige, earning the title "University of the Nations" due to its international student body. From its inception, a robust library was essential. The initial collection was amassed not only through purchase but through the generous bequests of Jesuit scholars and noble Roman families. However, the library’s history, like that of the Jesuit order itself, was marked by a dramatic rupture. In 1873, following the capture of Rome by Italian forces and the suppression of religious orders, the Roman College was confiscated by the Italian state. The priceless collections, built up over three centuries, were absorbed into the newly formed National Library of Rome.
The library was re-established and since 1930 has been located at Piazza della Pilotta , featuring a dedicated six-story "Book Tower" built specifically to house its growing collection. Expansive Collections and Patrimony gregoriana biblioteca
Features roughly 70 incunabula and 80 precious books from the 16th century. The origins of the library are inextricably linked