Waaghaus: A Historical Gem in St. Gallen

The Waaghaus, located on Bohl 14 in St. Gallen, is a historically significant building dating back to 1584-1585. Constructed by city architect Wolfgang Fögeli, it served as a Kauf-, Gred- und Waaghaus, a combined trading house, granary, and weighing house. Merchants used the building to weigh, tax, and store their goods. Over the centuries, the Waaghaus has undergone numerous transformations. In 1876, a post office was established within its walls. Following the demolition of the old town hall in 1877, the Waaghaus was fitted with the old town hall's fire bell tower and lunar clock. The building also accommodated police offices for a time. In 1958, the people of St. Gallen voted to preserve and renovate the Waaghaus, giving it its current layout. Today, the ground floor hosts various events, while the upper floor houses a hall for exhibitions and concerts, as well as the council chamber for the St. Gallen city parliament. The Waaghaus stands at the eastern end of the market square, marking the entrance to the Brühltor and Rorschacherstrasse. Its open lower level is characterized by large arched entrances. The east and west facades feature stepped gables, and the west facade has two rows of windows above the ground floor. The Waaghaus remains a focal point of St. Gallen, hosting diverse events and serving as a meeting place for the community.