Stiftsbibliothek St Gallen - One of the Oldest Libraries in the World

Join us to visit the Abbey of St. Gall, a timeless treasure of knowledge and history at one of Switzerland’s most captivating destinations. The Abbey Library of St. Gall, Stiftsbibliothek is the third oldest library in the world still operating, after the Biblioteca Capitolare di Verona and the library of Saint Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai.

You will see the library's rich history dating back to 613 AD, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Convent of St. Gallen. This remarkable library is definitely a must-see for history buffs, book lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike.

The Abbey Library's entrance greets visitors with the Greek inscription “ΨΥΧΗΣ ΙΑΤΡΕΙΟΝ" meaning "The Healing Place of the Soul," a phrase inspired by the Library of Ramesses II. This historical sanctuary has stood the test of time and today houses over 160,000 volumes, many of which are available for public use. Explore over 2,100 ancient manuscripts, some over a thousand years old, including the 8th-century Gospel of John and the famous Nibelungenlied manuscript. The library showcases handwritten and illuminated texts, such as Bibles, prayer books, and medieval biographies of saints offering visitors an unparalleled glimpse into life at the abbey through the ages.

The library also holds treasures from Irish, Carolingian, and even Ottoman periods, reflecting its deep cultural connections. You will find fascinating artefacts like the original Abbey plan from 825 AD, one of the most significant architectural drawings of the Middle Ages, as well as legal documents and more.

Take a walk through history with exhibitions that highlight the daily lives of the monks from the 9th century onwards. Discover artefacts that bring to life the rich heritage of the abbey, including a mummified Egyptian priest, Shep-en-Isis, and unique manuscripts written in Irish, a nod to the abbey's Irish roots.

Thanks to the museum's virtual library Codices Electronici Sangallenses you can explore over 600 manuscripts online, expanding access to this rich collection for scholars and enthusiasts around the world.

The library’s Rococo hall, designed by Peter Thumb in the late 1700s, offers a breathtaking setting for your visit. You can marvel at the stunning architecture and feel the weight of history in this beautifully preserved space.

The Abbey Library is fully wheelchair accessible. You will find a museum shop at the entrance, too. After your visit, explore the charming town of St. Gallen, just steps away, where you’ll find a variety of cafés and restaurants for a delightful meal or a glass of bubbly although your wallet may scream a bit...

Stiftsbibliothek

St. GallenKlosterhof 6D, 9004 St. Gallen

www.stiftsbezirk.ch/en/stiftsbibliothek