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St. Gallen Cathedral: A Baroque Masterpiece

Explore St. Gallen Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history and intricate artistry.

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St. Gallen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture in the heart of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Built between 1755 and 1767 on the site of a former abbey, the cathedral boasts impressive interiors, intricate frescoes, and a rich history dating back to the 7th century.

A brief summary to St. Gallen Cathedral

  • Monday 7 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-6 pm
  • Friday 7 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the official website for mass schedules to avoid visiting during services.
  • Take a guided tour to discover the hidden history and architectural details of the cathedral.
  • Visit the crypt to see the tomb of Saint Gallus and experience the quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
  • Explore the adjacent Abbey Library, one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world.
  • Look for the oldest bell on the right side of the altar, brought back by Saint Gall from Ireland.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the St. Gallen train station, the Cathedral is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Exit the station and follow Bahnhofstrasse into the city center. Continue straight, passing the Theater St. Gallen, until you reach the Abbey District. The Cathedral will be on your left, in Klosterhof.

  • Public Transport

    From the St. Gallen train station, take bus line 1, 3, 4, 6, or 9 to the St. Gallen, Stiftsbezirk stop. The ride takes about 5-10 minutes. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to Klosterhof, where the Cathedral is located.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from the St. Gallen train station to the Cathedral takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around CHF 15-25 for the ride. Taxi stands are available outside the train station.

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Discover more about St. Gallen Cathedral

St. Gallen Cathedral, or Kathedrale St. Gallus und Otmar, is a Roman Catholic church and a significant landmark in the city of St. Gallen, Switzerland. As part of the Abbey of St. Gall, it has been the cathedral of the Diocese of St. Gallen since 1847 and is considered one of the last great sacred structures of the Baroque era. The cathedral, together with the Abbey District, including the Abbey Library and Abbey Archives, forms the core of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral stands on the site where the Irish monk Gallus built his hermitage in 612. The first abbey church was built around 719, with the current church constructed between 1755 and 1766. Designed by Peter Thumb, the cathedral features a twin-tower façade and an interior adorned with stucco work and frescoes by Josef Wannenmacher. The crypt, dating back to the 9th century, houses the tomb of Saint Gallus and a relic of his skull. Visitors can explore the cathedral's rich decorations, including the south altar featuring a bell brought back by Saint Gall himself from Ireland, one of the three oldest surviving bells in Europe. The cathedral's airy interior, with its frescoes and paintings, offers a captivating experience. Guided tours provide insights into the cathedral's architecture, artistry, and religious significance.

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