My frequent visits to St. Gallen in Switzerland have often led me discovering more each time, to share something intriguing and enriching with my readers. This time I share my insights on this wonderful, upcoming town of St Gallen, strategically located in the Bodensee region.
St. Gallen has something for everyone whether it’s the world famous Abbey library of Saint Gall, its traditional textile industry, the vibrant cultural scene or the huge imposing cathedral.
The baroque abbey constitutes a unique complex comprising of the library and cathedral, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, welcoming thousands of visitors from around the world. The cathedral is the highlight with it being the last monumental sacred buildings of the baroque period. Ample light and malachite-green stucco works inspire a cheerful and peaceful atmosphere.
The abbey library is the most significant historical libraries worldwide.
It houses 170,000 volumes of handwritten books, manuscripts, early prints dating back to the 8th Century. A must visit for all book lovers!
Now for the artistically drawn; a look at St. Gallens bay windows or Oriels as they were once called were evidence of the wealth of many city merchants who used them to adorn their otherwise plain facades of their houses in the Middle Ages! There are about 111 Oriel windows to be found in the old town today! (Walk around or take a guided walking tour to know more about the history of St. Gallen)
These merchants traded in linen/cotton across Europe and were the origins of the now booming textile industry that we find globally present on the catwalks of Milan and Paris. The textile museum features the historical lace of St. Gallen, embroideries and woven materials as well.
More …??
For the academically inclined, St. Gallen is home to one of the world renowned universities bearing a unique location in addition to its architecture and artistic value. A walk around its campus will satisfy many artistic souls.
My favorite part — Gastronomy! (I think I love St. Gallen most for this!)
For all those who have a flair for local cuisine, I recommend the amber beer from Switzerland oldest brewery, sweet biber gingerbread, bratwurst sausage, Burli (bread rolls). There is also a bratwurst tasting seminar to try out different variety of bratwursts! (Can opt for culinary tours and beer tours.)
Indulge in some delectable international cuisines in either historical manors, in modern glass buildings or St. Gallen’s traditional first floor restaurants!
Talk about ambience!
And for the chocoholics, head to Flawil, a small town, which attracts visitors to its “chocolarium” a chocolate factory to satiate that sweet tooth! You can get spoiled for choices in this magical and reformed city!
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and say hello to St. Gallen!
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