Abbey library of St. Gallen travel guide

The Abbey Library of Saint Gall, nestled in the picturesque town of St. Gallen, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 8th century. Founded by Saint Othmar, the library is part of the Abbey of Saint Gall, one of the most significant monastic centers in Europe during the Middle Ages.

Originally established in 719 AD, the library has grown to become one of the oldest and most important monastic libraries in the world, housing an impressive collection of medieval manuscripts, incunabula, and early printed books. The Baroque hall, designed by architect Peter Thumb in the 18th century, is a masterpiece in itself, featuring ornate woodwork, frescoes, and a stunning Rococo design that transports visitors back in time.

The library's collection includes over 160,000 volumes, with some manuscripts dating as far back as the 4th century. Notable treasures include the earliest known architectural plan drawn on parchment and the ancient Irish manuscript, the 'Codex Sangallensis'.

In 1983, the Abbey Library of Saint Gall, along with the Abbey precinct, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its historical and cultural significance. Today, it continues to be a beacon of knowledge and a testament to the enduring legacy of monastic scholarship.

The Abbey Library of Saint Gall, often referred to as the 'Pharmacy of the Soul,' is renowned for its breathtaking Rococo architecture. Its stunningly ornate interior, characterized by lavish stucco work and intricately painted ceilings, immediately captures the eye. The centerpiece of the library is its magnificent, richly decorated main hall, which houses an impressive collection of medieval manuscripts, incunabula, and early printed books.

Another unique feature is the library's collection of over 170,000 volumes, including some of the oldest and most precious manuscripts in the world. Among these are the famous St. Gall Codices, which date back to the 8th century. The Abbey Library is also home to the oldest surviving architectural plan drawn on parchment: the Plan of St. Gall.

Visitors can also marvel at the life-sized wooden statue of St. Gallus, the library's namesake, which stands proudly within the hall. Additionally, the library offers a unique, immersive experience with its 'Books of the World' exhibit, where rare and ancient texts are displayed in their original form.

The library's commitment to preserving its historical treasures is further exemplified by its state-of-the-art conservation facilities, which ensure that these irreplaceable artifacts are protected for future generations. The Abbey Library of Saint Gall is not just a repository of ancient texts but a living monument to human knowledge and artistic achievement.

The Abbey Library of Saint Gall, often dubbed the 'Pharmacy of the Soul,' houses over 170,000 volumes, including manuscripts dating back to the 8th century. The library's Rococo hall, with its stunning stucco work and elaborate wooden carvings, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Among its treasures is the oldest surviving architectural plan on parchment, the Plan of St. Gall, which dates back to the early 9th century. The collection also includes a unique 9th-century copy of the Rule of St. Benedict and the oldest known German language book, the 'Abrogans.' Interestingly, the library has a mummy of an Egyptian woman named Schepenese, adding an exotic touch to its vast collection.

Located in the dynamic St. Gallen, the popular Abbey library of St. Gallen is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Sankt Gallen or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Switzerland.

Sankt Gallen is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Sankt Gallen offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Sankt Gallen and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Abbey of Saint Gall, St. Gallen Cathedral, Drei Weieren, Natural History Museum St. Gallen, and Botanischer Garten.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Sankt Gallen has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Sankt Gallen, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Switzerland!

The best time to explore Abbey Library of Saint Gall is during the late spring to early autumn months, specifically from May to September. During this period, St. Gallen enjoys mild weather, making it pleasant for sightseeing and exploring the historic library. The summer months of June to August are particularly favorable, as the days are longer and the sunshine illuminates the beautiful architecture and intricate woodwork of the library's interior.

In addition to the weather, visiting during these months allows travelers to experience the various cultural events and festivals that take place in St. Gallen, further enriching the visit. For those looking to avoid larger crowds, consider planning your trip in May or September, when the weather is still favorable, but the influx of tourists is slightly lower compared to the peak summer months.

Winter visits, while quieter, offer a unique charm with the possibility of snow-covered surroundings, adding a magical touch to the library's Baroque design. However, always check the library's opening hours in advance, as they may vary seasonally. Regardless of when you choose to visit, the Abbey Library of Saint Gall promises an enchanting experience steeped in history and culture.

Abbey library of St. Gallen is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Sankt Gallen, Switzerland. If you're flying in, Zürich Airport is approximately 38.8 miles (62.4 km) away from Sankt Gallen. From there, you can easily reach Abbey library of St. Gallen by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Sankt Gallen, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Abbey library of St. Gallen, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Abbey library of St. Gallen, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Klosterhof 6D, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Abbey library of St. Gallen!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Abbey library of St. Gallen and other top attractions in Sankt Gallen than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Sankt Gallen include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Abbey library of St. Gallen's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Abbey library of St. Gallen and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind monastic library in Switzerland.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Abbey library of St. Gallen and Switzerland's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 1 reputable rental car companies near Zürich Airport and the town of Sankt Gallen, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Switzerland cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Sankt Gallen and beyond.

Conveniently explore Abbey library of St. Gallen and plenty more captivating attractions in Sankt Gallen by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Abbey library of St. Gallen and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Sankt Gallen has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Abbey library of St. Gallen below.

Aside from Abbey library of St. Gallen, Sankt Gallen is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Sankt Gallen, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Abbey of Saint Gall, St. Gallen Cathedral, and Drei Weieren.

Abbey of Saint Gall is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Sankt Gallen, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,700 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Abbey of Saint Gall is Klosterhof 6B, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Another appreciated attraction in Sankt Gallen is St. Gallen Cathedral. Like Abbey of Saint Gall, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 2,100 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Klosterhof, 9000 St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Drei Weieren is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Sankt Gallen. This park and top attraction in Sankt Gallen has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,700 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Bitzistrasse 65, 9011 St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Sankt Gallen below.