Entry Into Confederation
CAPITAL AND LARGEST CITY
Saint-Gall
AREA
39.41 km2
POPULATION (2019)
75,833
official language
German

Popular
Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.
Political
St. Gallen is a city located in northeastern Switzerland and is the capital of the canton of St. Gallen. The city is an important economic center, with a diverse and thriving economy. Key industries in St. Gallen include finance, insurance, technology, and retail. The city is home to several large financial institutions, including Raiffeisen Bank, St. Galler Kantonalbank, and Credit Suisse. The technology sector is also growing, with several startups and established companies located in St. Gallen.
In terms of government, St. Gallen is a democratic canton and operates as a parliamentary republic. The canton's government is composed of a seven-member executive council and a 130-member legislative assembly. The city of St. Gallen also has its own municipality, with a mayor and a council.
The canton of St. Gallen has a strong commitment to social welfare and provides a range of services to its residents, including health care, education, and housing. The canton also invests heavily in infrastructure, including transportation, communication, and energy. Overall, the economy and government of St. Gallen are well-balanced, providing a strong foundation for continued growth and prosperity.
History
St. Gallen has a rich history dating back to the early Middle Ages, when it was established as an important religious center. The city is named after Saint Gall, an Irish monk who founded a monastery in the area in the 7th century. The monastery grew into one of the most important cultural centers of the region and is now home to the St. Gallen Cathedral and the St. Gallen Library, which holds over 160,000 volumes of rare books and manuscripts.
St. Gallen has a thriving cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. The Textile Museum St. Gallen showcases the city's rich history of textile production, while the Kunstmuseum St. Gallen is home to a large collection of modern and contemporary art. The city also hosts several music and cultural festivals throughout the year, including the St. Gallen Symphony Orchestra and the St. Gallen Theater Festival.
In addition to its cultural attractions, St. Gallen is also known for its beautiful architecture, with a mix of traditional and modern styles. The city has several historic buildings, including the St. Gallen Cathedral and the Abbey Garden, as well as several contemporary structures, such as the St. Gallen Conference Center and the Main Train Station. Overall, St. Gallen is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving cultural scene.