Waaghaus: A Historical Gem in St. Gallen
Explore the Waaghaus in St. Gallen: a historic landmark hosting vibrant events and exhibitions in the heart of the Old Town.
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.
Local tips
- Check the local event calendar for markets, concerts, and other events happening at the Waaghaus.
- Visit during the weekly market on Fridays to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Marktplatz.
- Take a stroll around the Old Town to admire the surrounding historical architecture.
A brief summary to Waaghaus
- Bohl 14, St Gallen, 9000, CH
- +41712245332
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
The Waaghaus is located in the heart of St. Gallen's Old Town on Bohl 14, easily accessible by foot from most central locations. From the St. Gallen train station, walk straight ahead to Bahnhofstrasse, continue onto Marktplatz. The Waaghaus is located at the end of the Marktplatz. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Waaghaus is well-served by local buses. From the St. Gallen train station, several bus lines will take you to the nearby bus stops 'Marktplatz' or 'St. Leonhard'. From either stop, it is a short walk to the Waaghaus. A single ticket within zone 210 costs CHF 2.30.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in St. Gallen, especially at the train station. A short taxi ride from the train station to the Waaghaus will typically cost between CHF 10 and CHF 20, depending on traffic and the time of day.
