Switzerland - Eastern Switzerland

St.Gallen Cathedral

Klosterhof 6a St.Gallen, St. Gallen, 9000, Switzerland Phone: +41 (0)71 227 33 81

Recenter Map To This Location

The name of Saint Gallen harks back to the 7th century when an Irish monk named Gallas arrived here and laid the foundation (supposedly with the help of a bear) to what was to become a famous Benedictine Monastery. As the years progressed, a prosperous town (famous for textiles and embroidery) grew up around the abbey. As you approach the city, its modern outskirts seem quite a contrast to the tranquil, pastoral beauty of Appenzeller Land. But, continue on to its historic center which is well worth a visit—if for no other reason than to visit its stunning cathedral and adjacent Abbey Library. The lavishly embellished library is the star attraction. It houses a staggering collection of 2,000 ancient manuscripts and 100,000 books. To protect the library’s precious inlaid wood floor, felt slippers are loaned to visitors to slip over their shoes.