Cantonal government building

The Cantonal Government Building in Herisau (Regierungsgebäude) sits on the Obstmarkt square and houses the authorities of the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. It is a neo-Baroque landmark from the early twentieth century, still used every day by politicians and civil servants. Visitors come for its facade and for the chamber of the cantonal parliament.

What is this building?

Herisau is the largest municipality in Appenzell Ausserrhoden and the practical centre of its government. The cantonal constitution names no official capital, yet the parliament (Kantonsrat), the cantonal government and the central administration all sit in Herisau. That is why the house on Obstmarkt is often described as the seat of the canton's government and parliament. The cantonal judiciary, by contrast, is based in Trogen.

When was it built, and by whom?

The story starts around 1909, when the cantonal bank (Kantonalbank) planned a new headquarters. The government considered adding a state administration building to the same project, but in the end the bank carried out construction itself. Sources place the works between 1910 and 1913, with completion around 1914. The design came from the architects Bollert & Herter, and the bank's president, Ferdinand Büchler, drove the project forward.

For decades the building served two purposes, as a state building and as the bank's home, until 1983. In 1984 it passed into the canton's ownership and was converted. The 1984–1987 renovation was carried out by Auer & Möhrle.

What will you see?

The neo-Baroque front facing Obstmarkt is the main draw, and travel guides single it out as one of the sights of central Herisau. Inside, the heart of the house is the Kantonsrat chamber, regarded as its principal ceremonial room. It was renovated and technically upgraded in 2004.

Obstmarkt itself is a town-centre square that hosts a market. The municipality has long discussed redesigning it, and in 2019 the local council approved funding for a design competition for the square.

Can you visit?

This is a working government office, not a museum with fixed opening hours. The best chance to see the interiors is one of the free guided tours of the cantonal and government building that are announced from time to time, covering the building's history and the canton's institutions. Check the canton's website (ar.ch) or the local tourist office for dates. The exterior can be admired at any time.

How to get there

Herisau lies in the northern part of the Appenzell region, close to St. Gallen, and can be reached by train. The building stands in the town centre at roughly 47.385 N, 9.280 E, a short walk from the middle of town.

Frequently asked questions

Is Herisau the capital of Appenzell Ausserrhoden? Officially the constitution designates no capital. In practice Herisau plays that role, as the parliament and cantonal government are based there.

When was the building constructed? Construction ran roughly from 1910 to 1913, with completion dated to 1914. Until 1983 it also housed the cantonal bank.

Can I go inside? It is an active office. The interiors, including the parliament chamber, are easiest to see on the free guided tours offered from time to time.

What architectural style is it? Neo-Baroque, most visible in the facade facing Obstmarkt.