Cultural Museum St.Gallen
The name combines the three core disciplines of the museum: archaeology, history and ethnology.
The museum's collection includes objects from prehistory and early history to the 20th century as well as a wide range of artifacts from various cultures around the world.
History:
On June 28, 1914, the local community of St.Gallen decided to build what was then the Historical and Ethnological Museum - on the very day that the First World War began. It was one of the last major projects during the embroidery boom. The opening finally took place on March 31, 1921.
Architecture:
Designed by the Winterthur architects Bridler & Völki, the museum was built between 1915 and 1921. The neo-classical hipped roof building presents an imposing order of columns on the western façade, which is also repeated on the eastern side. The central courtyard serves as an event venue, while the interior spaces are literally built around the collections, giving the building the character of a Gesamtkunstwerk. It is not just a shell, but a sensual backdrop in its own right.
Current use:
Today, the Kulturmuseum St.Gallen houses one of the most important collections of cultural history in Eastern Switzerland. It focuses on the history of the city and region of St.Gallen. Highlights include unique objects relating to the canvas trade and a model of the city of St.Gallen from around 1642. Particularly impressive are the original historical rooms, including the ceremonial hall of St.Gallen Prince-Abbot Joachim Opser from the 16th century. The museum attaches great importance to offering a wide range of activities for families and children, with the children's museum on the top floor being one of the most popular sections.
