All Saints Museum
Schaffhausen
The All Saints Museum, housed within the historic former Benedictine monastery of Kloster Allerheiligen in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, is one of the largest museums in the country. It combines archaeology, history, art, and natural history under one roof, offering visitors a comprehensive cultural experience. The museum complex includes the Münster Allerheiligen church, the monastery garden, and the largest accessible cloister in Switzerland. The buildings themselves date back to the 11th century, making them the oldest surviving structures in Schaffhausen. The museum’s collections span from medieval art to natural history exhibits, including a notable antiquities collection gifted in 1991. The site also preserves the architectural heritage of the former abbey, featuring cloisters, convent buildings, and a herb garden. Visitors can explore the museum's rich exhibitions as well as enjoy the peaceful monastery grounds, which reflect a millennium of religious and cultural history. The museum is a cultural hub that connects medieval monastic life with modern museology, making it a must-see for history and art enthusiasts alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during the warmer months to enjoy both the indoor exhibitions and the monastery garden. It's advisable to check the museum's website for current opening hours and any special exhibitions. Tickets can often be purchased online, and discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the historical context and art collections. The museum is centrally located in Schaffhausen's old town, making it easily accessible on foot.
Interesting facts
- •The All Saints Museum is among the largest museums in Switzerland by floor area.
- •The museum integrates art, archaeology, history, and natural history collections under one roof.
- •The monastery garden includes the largest freely accessible cloister in Switzerland.
- •The museum was heavily damaged during a mistaken US bombing raid in 1944 but was restored and reopened in 1946.
- •The 'Schillerglocke' bell in the cloister inspired the famous poet Friedrich Schiller's "Song of the Bell".
- •The museum houses a significant antiquities collection donated by Marcel Ebnöther in 1991.
History
Founded in 1049 by Count Eberhard von Nellenburg, the Benedictine monastery of Allerheiligen was consecrated by Pope Leo IX and completed by 1064.
It became a significant religious and political center, with the abbey gaining sovereign rights and control over Schaffhausen.
The monastery underwent various expansions and renovations during the Middle Ages, including the addition of convent buildings and defensive structures.
After a period of decline, the abbey was abolished during the Swiss Reformation in 1524, and the church became a city cathedral.
In the 20th century, the monastery buildings were repurposed to house the All Saints Museum, which opened in 1928 and has since evolved into a major cultural institution preserving both art and natural history.
Place Guide
Münster Allerheiligen (All Saints Church)1049-1064
The oldest building in Schaffhausen, this Romanesque church features a three-aisled basilica with a three-apsed choir, transept, and double tower facade. It was consecrated in 1049 and served as the abbey church.
Cloister and Monastery Garden11th century onwards
The cloister is the largest freely accessible one in Switzerland, surrounded by the monastery garden which was historically used as a cemetery for privileged citizens.
Convent Buildings11th to 16th centuries
These two-winged, two-storey buildings housed the monks' chapter house, dormitories, guesthouses, and other monastic functions, reflecting the architectural evolution from the 11th to 16th centuries.
Antiquities ExhibitionCollection donated in 1991
Located in the former Kammgarnspinnerei connected by a covered walkway, this exhibition showcases the significant collection of ancient artifacts donated by Marcel Ebnöther, one of Europe's most important antiquities collections.
Contact
Phone: 052 633 07 77