St. Gallen Abbey Library

10/06/2025

5 / 5

Zurich

Explore the stunning St. Gallen Abbey Library, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Switzerland. Learn about its rich history, architectural beauty, and priceless manuscripts.

St. Gallen Abbey Library

The St. Gallen Abbey Library, located in the heart of St. Gallen, Switzerland, is a treasure trove of history and culture. This magnificent library, part of the St. Gallen Abbey, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and extensive collection of ancient manuscripts.

History of St. Gallen Abbey Library

Founded in the 8th century by Saint Gallus, the Abbey quickly became a center for learning and scholarship. The library itself was established in the 9th century and has been a vital part of the Abbey's mission to preserve knowledge through the ages.

Architectural Highlights

  • Baroque Design: The library features a breathtaking Baroque design, characterized by ornate ceilings, intricate woodwork, and stunning frescoes.
  • Famous Ceiling Frescoes: The ceiling is adorned with beautiful frescoes painted by Joseph Anton Auer, depicting the history of the Abbey and the importance of knowledge.
  • Unique Reading Room: The library's reading room is a masterpiece, with its grand wooden shelves filled with thousands of ancient books and manuscripts.

Collection Highlights

The St. Gallen Abbey Library houses over 170,000 volumes, including:

  • Manuscripts: Over 2,000 medieval manuscripts, some dating back to the 9th century.
  • Incunabula: A collection of books printed before 1501, showcasing the dawn of the printing era.
  • Rare Books: Numerous rare texts covering a variety of subjects, including theology, philosophy, and history.

Visitor Information

Visiting the St. Gallen Abbey Library is a must for anyone interested in history, architecture, or literature. Here are some essential details for your visit:

  • Location: St. Gallen, Switzerland
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM; Sunday: Closed
  • Admission Fee: Approximately $12 USD for adults, $8 USD for students and seniors.

Conclusion

The St. Gallen Abbey Library is not just a library; it is a journey through time, a place where the past meets the present. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience in Switzerland, the Abbey Library is a destination that should not be missed.

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User Reviews

Isabella Filippi

5/5

CHF 18 for the visit of the library, the cloister and the exhibition. This is the most beautiful (small) library that I’ve ever seen. There’s an ancient mummy inside. No spoiler: it’s impressive. There’s also a replica of a globe from the 1500’s. Incredible. The exhibition is worth the visit also.

Yoah van Gelder

5/5

The Abbey Library in St. Gallen is a breathtaking slice of history! It’s smaller than it looks in photos but still packs a big wow factor. Photos are allowed (sans flash), and yes, you get to wear slippers over your shoes—sliding on the wooden floors is half the fun! Highlights include the impressive old globe and the unexpected mummy at the back. The combo tickets are worth it, with fascinating exhibits about St. Gall and St. Gallen's legendary origins. A must-visit for history buffs and book lovers alike!

Olha Faryma

5/5

Super nice experience. There's a free guided tour on Saturday at 13.00 in German. Very interesting, took more than an hour. Without the tour you'd be fine in 5-10 mins.

Average Rating: ⭐ 5/5

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