Rathaus Bischofszell

Bischofszell Town Hall (Rathaus Bischofszell) sits in the middle of the old town in the Swiss canton of Thurgau. The building at Marktgasse 11 anchors the historic streetscape and makes a natural starting point for a walk around town.

What is this building?

Master builder Johann Caspar Bagnato put up the town hall between 1747 and 1750. It is a Baroque structure on the site of an earlier hall dating from 1626 to 1629. That earlier building was lost in 1743, when a town fire also destroyed roughly seventy other houses. The rebuilding that followed gave central Bischofszell the unified look it keeps today, with the town hall standing among burgher and canon houses as the most prominent building on the street.

Why is it worth a look?

Thurgau's heritage inventory rates the town hall as especially valuable. According to the register, the exterior is of outstanding cultural and historical importance, and the interior is rated higher still. The building was restored from 1977 to 1980 by the cantonal conservation office together with local architect Jakob Diem. For visitors, that means a well-preserved Baroque landmark rather than a heavily altered one.

The wider town is known for protecting its historic fabric. In 1987 Bischofszell received the Wakker Prize, a Swiss award for care of the built environment. Since 2005 it has also carried the nickname "Rose Town", thanks to its Baroque rose garden.

Where is it?

The town hall stands in the old town on Marktgasse, at about 47.494 N, 9.240 E. The historic centre is compact, so you can cover the main sights on foot in a short time. Pair the visit with a stroll through the surrounding lanes, which were rebuilt after the 1743 fire.

How to plan a visit?

A few minutes is enough to take in the facade and surroundings. If you enjoy architecture, set aside an hour or two for the whole old town. Mild, dry weather suits walking the streets and gardens. The building serves municipal functions, so access inside depends on current rules, which you can check at bischofszell.ch.

Frequently asked questions

Who built the Bischofszell town hall?

Johann Caspar Bagnato designed it, and construction ran from 1747 to 1750.

Why was it rebuilt in the 18th century?

The previous town hall, built in 1626 to 1629, burned down in the great town fire of 1743.

When was the building restored?

It was restored between 1977 and 1980.

Has Bischofszell won any distinctions?

Yes. It received the Wakker Prize in 1987 and has been called the Rose Town since 2005.