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Abbey of Saint Gall: A Baroque Masterpiece

Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Abbey of Saint Gall, a Baroque masterpiece with a rich history and stunning library.

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The Abbey of Saint Gall is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the city of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Founded in the 7th century, it was an important center of learning and spirituality and features stunning Baroque architecture, including a renowned library with priceless manuscripts.

A brief summary to Abbey of Saint Gall

Local tips

  • Allow ample time to explore the Abbey Library, home to a vast collection of ancient manuscripts and stunning Baroque architecture.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the abbey's history and significance.
  • Check the opening hours and ticket prices before your visit.
  • Note that photography is permitted for private purposes without flash, tripod, or selfie stick.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From St. Gallen railway station, the Abbey of Saint Gall is approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Exit the station and walk straight ahead into the city center. The Abbey is located in the heart of the old town.

  • Public Transport

    From St. Gallen railway station, take bus number 11 towards Abacus-Platz. The nearest bus stop is called "Stiftsbezirk," which is right by the Abbey Library. Public transport within St. Gallen typically costs around CHF 3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from St. Gallen railway station. A short taxi ride to the Abbey of Saint Gall will cost approximately CHF 10-15. Taxi fares in St. Gallen are based on a metered system.

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The Abbey of Saint Gall, located in the city of St. Gallen in northeastern Switzerland, is a dissolved abbey that stands as a remarkable testament to European history and culture. Founded in 719 on the site of Saint Gall's hermitage, the abbey flourished for centuries as a Benedictine monastery, becoming a significant religious, economic, and cultural hub. The abbey's origins trace back to Saint Gall, an Irish monk who established a hermitage in the area around 612. Over time, a monastic community grew around this site, eventually adopting the Rule of St. Benedict in 747. The abbey gained independence in the 9th century and experienced a golden age, attracting scholars and expanding its library. The abbey complex features a blend of architectural styles, with its present appearance largely attributed to 18th-century Baroque reconstruction. The cathedral, rebuilt between 1755 and 1768, showcases late Baroque architecture with eastern and western rotundas framing the nave. Inside, visitors can admire the airy interior, the baptismal font reflecting the frescoed ceiling, and the intricate stucco work by the Gigl brothers. The towers reach a height of 68 meters and house several bells, including the massive Dreifaltigkeitsglocke. The Abbey Library of Saint Gall is one of the oldest and richest monastic libraries in the world. Housing over 170,000 volumes, including precious manuscripts and the Plan of Saint Gall, the library is a treasure trove of knowledge and art. The library's architecture is primarily Baroque but is adorned with Rococo elements. In 1983, the Abbey of Saint Gall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding universal value and its importance as a cultural center. Today, the abbey complex accommodates the government and administration of the Canton of St. Gallen, as well as the Diocese of St. Gallen. Visitors can explore the cathedral, library, and other parts of the complex, immersing themselves in the rich history and artistic heritage of this remarkable site.

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