Language & literature museums in Switzerland

The Abbey Library of Saint Gall, established in the 8th century, is one of the oldest and most significant monastic libraries in the world. It was rebuilt in the 18th century in the Baroque Rococo style, adding a touch of elegance and grandeur to its historical significance. This library is a part of the Abbey of Saint Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a place of interest for tourists who appreciate history, architecture, and culture.

Birthplace of Rousseau. Now the house serves as a museum providing information on his life and work. Free entrance for students.

Return to your childhood here where the Heidi story was filmed. Fairytale-like cottage surrounded by scenic landscape.

The Swiss Theatre Collection (STS) is a significant cultural institution in Bern, Switzerland, dedicated to documenting the creation of Swiss theatre. It comprises an archive, a library, and a museum, offering a comprehensive insight into the country's theatrical history and current practices.

The Bibliotheca Bodmeriana, located in Cologny near Geneva, Switzerland, is a literature museum founded by Martin Bodmer. This museum is home to a vast collection of literature and other artifacts collected by Bodmer throughout his lifetime. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of literature from different periods and cultures.

The Polish Museum in Rapperswil, Switzerland, is a cultural institution that was established on October 23, 1870. It is located in the town of Rapperswill in the canton of St. Gallen. The museum has been serving continuously since its establishment, except for two periods between 1927–1936 and 1952–1975.

The Hermann Hesse Museum is situated in the picturesque locale of Montagnola, which is a part of the municipality of Collina d'Oro, in Ticino. This location is not only scenic but also holds historical significance as it was the residence of the renowned writer Hermann Hesse.

The Museum of the Swiss Charters of Confederation, also known as Bundesbriefmuseum, is a significant historical site in Schwyz. Since its inauguration in 1936, it has been the home of the Federal Charter of 1291. This document is a cornerstone of Swiss history and a key exhibit in the museum.

The Centre Dürrenmatt Neuchâtel (CDN) is a dedicated space that showcases the artistic side of Friedrich Dürrenmatt, a renowned Swiss author and painter. Visitors can explore a wide range of his paintings and drawings, providing a unique insight into his creative process and artistic vision.

The Stapferhaus in Lenzburg, Switzerland, has a rich history dating back to 1960 when it was established as a hub for intellectual discourse and social interaction. This unique institution was founded by representatives of Pro Helvetia, Pro Argovia, the Canton Aargau, and the City of Lenzburg, and named after Philipp Albert Stapfer, the founder of the Canton of Aargau. Today, it continues to serve as a vibrant center for thought-provoking discussions and cultural exchange.

The Maison d’Ailleurs, located in the heart of Yverdon-les-Bains, is a unique museum dedicated to science fiction. It is housed in a former residence at Place Pestalozzi, adding a touch of historical charm to its futuristic focus. The museum offers a deep dive into the world of science fiction, making it an interesting destination for fans of the genre.

The Historisches Museum Herisau, also known as Museum Herisau, is a significant cultural institution located in the town of Herisau. This museum is a key destination for those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the region.

The Strauhof is a literature house situated in the heart of Zurich's old town at Augustinergasse 9. This Baroque citizen's house is a hub for literature and its spatial staging, offering a unique experience for literature enthusiasts. The exhibitions, which change regularly, focus on facts and fictions, stories and poems, making classic works and current topics accessible to visitors.

Sprachpanorama is a unique museum located in Laufenburg, Switzerland. It is a permanent exhibition that revolves around the theme of 'Understanding Language'. The museum is housed in a former restaurant called 'Schlosskeller' and offers various tours and workshops related to language. The museum encourages exploration and discovery through individual activities such as flipping, turning, tapping, drawing, clicking, and listening.

The Poets and City Museum Liestal, known as Dichter- und Stadtmuseum Liestal or DISTL, was inaugurated on July 7, 1946. Located in the Swiss town of Liestal, the museum is dedicated to regional and nationally renowned authors. It is a significant cultural institution that offers insights into the literary history of the region.

The Rainer Maria Rilke Foundation promotes the works of Rilke through various means including a museum, exhibitions, lectures, publications, and a festival. These activities provide an in-depth understanding of Rilke's life and works.

The Sensler Museum, located in Tafers, Canton of Fribourg, Switzerland, is a cultural and historical museum dedicated to the Sense district. It is a significant institution that collects and preserves cultural heritage, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of the region's history and culture.

The Voltaire Institute and Museum, also known as Les Délices, is a cultural institution located in the Parc des Délices in Geneva, Switzerland. The museum specializes in the study of the French writer Voltaire, making it a unique destination for those interested in literature and history. It is one of the four sites of the Geneva Library and hosts a library on Voltaire and the Enlightenment period, as well as events related to the writer or the 18th century.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum in Lucens, Switzerland, is a unique destination dedicated to the work and hero of Arthur Conan Doyle. The museum houses a collection of books and objects related to Sherlock Holmes, as well as the living room of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, furnished with personal belongings of the writer.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum, located in Lucens, Switzerland, is a tribute to the work and the hero of Arthur Conan Doyle. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of one of the most famous detectives in literature. The museum houses a collection of books and objects related to Sherlock Holmes, providing a comprehensive insight into the life and works of Arthur Conan Doyle.

A gem for the fans of the famous German writer and Nobel Prize laureate T. Mann. Archive contains his manuscripts, diaries and many more.

The Ortsmuseum Hallau is situated in the churchyard of the village church St. Moritz, in the municipality of Hallau, within the canton of Schaffhausen in Switzerland. This location offers a unique setting for the museum, surrounded by the historical and cultural significance of the church and the village.