The City of St.Gallen

Rising above a green island amidst the city centre are the steeples of the impressive baroque cathedral

belonging to the Stift. The religious foundation district that has been granted World Cultural Heritage status by UNESCO, not least due to its world-famous library containing, amongst countless books of immeasurable value, parchment manuscripts more than 1000 years old.

History

The city of St.Gallen owes its name and its existence to the Irish wandering monk Gallus, who came from Lake Constance around 612 to the high valley of Steinach. In the 8th century a monastery was erected around his cell, as was the city later on. In the monastery St.Gallen art and science were avidly pursued, as can be seen in the world renowned library, where you can marvel over the many books and artefacts. The foundation of the library's tremendous literary treasure was laid down in the Middle Ages. The ancient monastery edifices, however, did not withstand time as well; they were torn down in the mid-18th century. At that time the present baroque buildings were erected alongside the splendid Cathedral (1755–1766).

Today

Today St.Gallen is the 7th largest city in Switzerland. It is a regional centre, has a University, theatre, concert hall, museums, hospitals and is the seat of the bishop. Its ideal location between Lake Constance and Mount Säntis, and its well preserved historical old town provide a wide range of sights as well as a series of intriguing events throughout the year, making this Eastern Swiss metropolis a favourite one for the thousands of visitors who pass through here each and every year.