Timeless treasures: exhibitions across epochs
Switzerland boasts the world’s highest concentration of museums, with over a thousand dedicated to a diverse array of subjects. Spanning the country’s cities, these cultural havens offer a choice between hidden gems and renowned classics, ensuring a rich experience for all. Celebrating a tapestry of themes, from art and culture to history, customs, crafts, and intriguing peculiarities, Switzerland takes pride in its museum diversity. Visitors can explore exhibitions that span different epochs, promising both amazement and amusement.
Nestled in the eastern expanse of Switzerland, within its eponymous Canton, St. Gallen captivates visitors with its backdrop of rolling hills and stands as a testament to a rich tapestry of history and culture. At the heart of St. Gallen’s cultural allure stands the Stiftsbibliothek, or St. Gallen Abbey Library, an eminent repository of medieval manuscripts and books. This venerable institution earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1983, for being home to one of the world’s foremost collections of meticulously preserved medieval texts. Embedded in the city’s narrative is a profound connection to the Abbey, its roots reaching back to the 8th century. The abbey complex, including the resplendent library, stands as a living chronicle of St. Gallen’s enduring cultural and religious significance. For an immersive experience, the “Entire Abbey” combined ticket beckons enthusiasts to explore all three exhibitions. Among the treasures unveiled is the original 9th-century map of the Abbey of St. Gall, presented for the first time in its authentic form. In essence, St. Gallen seamlessly intertwines historical charm with cultural opulence, emerging as a coveted haven for enthusiasts of history, literature, and the arts.
Geneva, Switzerland, situated on Lake Geneva’s western tip, is renowned for its international significance. From hosting major organizations such as the UN and serving as a hub for NGOs, the city nicknamed the “Capital of Peace” is the birthplace of the International Red Cross. The European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), which operates the Large Hadron Collider and contributes significantly to particle physics, is located just a 25-minute streetcar ride from Geneva’s city center. This past October, CERN proudly inaugurated its groundbreaking Science Gateway, a visionary hub for science education and outreach designed to appeal to individuals of all ages. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone in scientific engagement. Designed by the acclaimed Renzo Piano Building Workshop and made possible through generous external donations, the Science Gateway stands as a testament to architectural brilliance. Now accessible to visitors worldwide, the doors are open, free of entry, inviting inquisitive minds aged five and above.
