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Abbey of Saint Gall: A Baroque Jewel with Ancient Roots

Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a stunning Baroque abbey with a world-renowned library holding centuries of knowledge and history.

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The Abbey of Saint Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning Baroque architectural complex with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Its library, one of the oldest and richest in the world, houses precious medieval manuscripts.

A brief summary to Abbey of Saint Gall

Local tips

  • Visit the Abbey Library, one of the oldest and richest libraries in the world, and marvel at its Baroque hall and collection of ancient manuscripts.
  • Explore the Abbey's other exhibitions, including the Vaulted Cellar and the Exhibition Space, to learn about the abbey's history and cultural significance.
  • Take a guided tour to discover the hidden stories and architectural details of the Abbey complex.
  • Check the Abbey's website for closures before planning your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Abbey of Saint Gall is located in the city center and is easily accessible on foot from most points in St. Gallen. From the St. Gallen railway station, it's a 5-10 minute walk. Head northeast from the station, following the signs for the Stiftsbezirk (Abbey District). The Abbey complex will be on your left, with the main entrance on Klosterhof.

  • Public Transport

    Bus number 11, direction Abacus-Platz, will take you from St. Gallen railway station to the Stiftsbezirk bus stop, which is right by the Abbey Library. The bus ride is approximately 7 minutes. A single fare costs around CHF 2-4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St. Gallen. A taxi ride from the St. Gallen railway station to the Abbey of Saint Gall takes approximately 3 minutes and costs between CHF 13-17.

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Discover more about Abbey of Saint Gall

The Abbey of Saint Gall, located in the city of St. Gallen in northeastern Switzerland, is a captivating blend of Baroque splendor and ancient monastic tradition. Founded in 719 on the site of Saint Gall's hermitage, the abbey grew into a prominent Benedictine center, becoming an independent principality between the 9th and 13th centuries. Today, the abbey complex stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding example of a large Carolingian monastery and its significance as a cultural center in Europe from the 8th century until its secularization in 1805. The abbey's library is one of the oldest and richest monastic libraries in the world. The abbey's main features include the Baroque cathedral, constructed between 1755 and 1768, and the Abbey Library, famed for its opulent Rococo hall and vast collection of manuscripts. The library's collection includes early medieval books, handwritten manuscripts, and the earliest-known architectural plan drawn on parchment. Visitors can also view the 2,700-year-old Egyptian mummy, Shepenese. The Abbey of Saint Gall offers a glimpse into over 1200 years of history, showcasing monastic architecture from the High Middle Ages to historicism. The complex includes the cathedral, the library, the "Neue Pfalz," and other buildings that reflect the abbey's long and influential past.

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