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Wil (German pronunciation: [viːl]) is a town and political municipality in the canton of St. Gallen in Switzerland. It has a small-town character and is an important center for the west of the canton, lower Toggenburg and Hinterthurgau. Wil had a population of 25,176 by the end of 2024. With 74,550 inhabitants (according to the FSO), the agglomeration of Wil is the second-largest conurbation in Eastern Switzerland. The former political municipality of Bronschhofen has been part of the town of Wil since 1 January 2013. For more than 500 years, the prince-abbots of St. Gallen resided in the "Hof" of Wil; Wil is also called "Abbots Town" ("Äbtestadt") and is the third largest city in the canton of St. Gallen, after St. Gallen and Rapperswil-Jona.

Key Information

In 1984, Wil was awarded the Wakker Prize for the development and preservation of its architectural heritage.[1]

Geography

[edit]
Wiler Stadtweier (2005)
Aerial view of Wil (1953)
sunrise lake of wil
Autumn sunrise at Wiler Stadtweier (2017)

Since the merger in 2013, Wil now has an area of 20.82 km2 (8.04 sq mi).[2] Based on the 2004/09 survey, but including the post-merger area, about 50.1% of the total land is used for agricultural purposes, while 18.9% is forested. Of the rest of the land, 30.1% is settled (buildings or roads) and 0.9% is unproductive land. During the two decades from 1979/85 to 2004/09, the amount of land that is settled has increased by 111 ha (270 acres) and the agricultural land has decreased almost by the same ratio, by 113 ha (280 acres).[3]

Before the merger, Wil had an area, as of 2006, of 7.6 km2 (2.9 sq mi). Of this area, 32.1% is used for agricultural purposes, while 13.9% is forested. Of the rest of the land, 53.4% is settled (buildings or roads) and the remainder (0.7%) is non-productive (rivers or lakes).[4]

The former municipality of Bronschhofen had an area, as of 2006, of 13.2 km2 (5.1 sq mi). Of this area, 65.3% is used for agricultural purposes, while 22.1% is forested. Of the remaining land, 12% is settled (buildings or roads) and the remainder (0.5%) is non-productive (rivers or lakes).[4] It consisted of the villages of Bronschhofen and Rossrüti as well as the hamlets of Maugwil, Trungen and Dreibrunnen.

Coat of arms

[edit]

The blazon of the municipal coat of arms is Per pale Argent a Bear rampant Sable langued and in his virility Gules and Sable, a Snail shell Or above a letter W of the First.[5]

Demographics

[edit]

Wil has a population (as of December 2020) of 24,132.[6] As of 2013, 27.3% of the population are resident foreign nationals. Over the last 3 years (2010–2013) the population has changed at a rate of 3.13%. In 2000, of the foreign population, 272 were from Germany, 776 were from Italy, 1,876 were from ex-Yugoslavia, 135 were from Austria, 309 were from Turkey, and 578 from another country.[7] The birth rate in the municipality, in 2013, was 11.2 while the death rate was 7.5 per thousand residents.[3]

Before the merger, in 2011, Bronschhofen had a population of 4,654.[8]

Most of the population (as of 2000) speaks German (85.1%), with Albanian being the second most common (4.5%) and Italian being the third most common language (3.0%).[4] Of the Swiss national languages (as of 2000), 13,943 speak German, 60 people speak French, 488 people speak Italian, and 26 people speak Romansh.[9]

As of 2013, children and teenagers (0–19 years old) make up 19.7% of the population, while adults (20–64 years old) are 62.6% and seniors (over 64 years old) make up 17.7%.[3]

In 2000 there were 2,829 people (or 17.3% of the population) who were living alone in a private dwelling. There were 4,034 (or 24.6%) people who were part of a couple (married or otherwise committed) without children, and 7,421 (or 45.3%) who were part of a couple with children. There were 954 (or 5.8%) people who lived in single parent home, while there were 79 people who were adult children living with one or both parents, 90 people who lived in a household made up of relatives, 174 who lived in a household made up of unrelated people, and 811 who are either institutionalized or live in another type of collective housing.[9]

In the 2007 federal election the most popular party was the SVP which received 31.7% of the vote. The next three most popular parties were the CVP (21.9%), the SP (14.9%) and the FDP (12.5%).[4]

In Wil, about 69.2% of the population (between age 25-64) have completed either non-mandatory upper secondary education or additional higher education (either university or a Fachhochschule).[4] Out of the total population in Wil, as of 2000, the highest education level completed by 3,538 people (21.6% of the population) was Primary, while 6,179 (37.7%) have completed their secondary education, 2,158 (13.2%) have attended a Tertiary school, and 818 (5.0%) are not in school. The remainder did not answer this question.[9]

Heritage sites of national significance

[edit]
St. Catherine's Dominican Monastery, Wil (2012)

The Baronenhaus at Marktgasse 73, the Dominican Abbey of St. Katharina, the Hof (the former seat of the Prince-abbot) and the pilgrimage church Maria Dreibrunnen are listed as Swiss heritage sites of national significance.[10]

The old town center of Wil is designated as part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites.[11]

Transport

[edit]
Main article: Wil railway station

It is a railway node, being located on the train line from Zürich-Winterthur to St. Gallen and connected with lines to Frauenfeld, Weinfelden-Konstanz and Wattwil - Nesslau (Toggenburg) or Rapperswil.

Sport

[edit]

The soccer club FC Wil play in the Swiss Challenge League.

Economy

[edit]

As of 2012, there were a total of 14,138 people employed in the municipality. Of these, a total of 163 people worked in 54 businesses in the primary economic sector. The secondary sector employed 3,213 workers in 247 separate businesses. Finally, the tertiary sector provided 10,762 jobs in 1,456 businesses. In 2013 a total of 2.0% of the population received social assistance.[3]

As of 2000 there were 3,873 residents who worked in the municipality, while 4,695 residents worked outside Wil and 6,368 people commuted into the municipality for work.[12]

Religion

[edit]
Stadtkirche St. Nikolaus, Wil (2025)

From the 2000 census, 8,817 or 53.8% are Roman Catholic, while 3,561 or 21.7% belonged to the Swiss Reformed Church. Of the rest of the population, there are 6 individuals (or about 0.04% of the population) who belong to the Christian Catholic faith, there are 473 individuals (or about 2.89% of the population) who belong to the Orthodox Church, and there are 265 individuals (or about 1.62% of the population) who belong to another Christian church. There are 10 individuals (or about 0.06% of the population) who are Jewish, and 1,433 (or about 8.74% of the population) who are Islamic. There are 116 individuals (or about 0.71% of the population) who belong to another church (not listed on the census), 1,138 (or about 6.94% of the population) belong to no church, are agnostic or atheist, and 573 individuals (or about 3.50% of the population) did not answer the question.[9]

Crime

[edit]

In 2014 the crime rate, of the over 200 crimes listed in the Swiss Criminal Code (running from murder, robbery and assault to accepting bribes and election fraud), in Wil was 62.9 per thousand residents. This rate is about one and a half times greater than the cantonal rate, but very similar to the national rate. During the same period, the rate of drug crimes was 10.2 per thousand residents and the rate of violations of immigration, visa and work permit laws was 3 per thousand. Both of which were very close to the national rate.[13]

Mayor

[edit]

On 1 January 2013, Susanne Hartmann became the first female mayor not only of Wil-Bronschhofen but in the entire canton of St. Gallen. Hartmann announced her candidacy in April 2012. Despite all forecasts the result of the elections was a landslide victory for Susanne Hartmann.[14][15]

Notable people

[edit]
Anna Sutter (1894)
Fabian Schär (2018)

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Wil

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from Grokipedia
Wil is a town and municipality in the in , located on the Thur River with an area of 20.80 square kilometers. As of 2024 estimates, the municipality has a population of 25,176 residents, including the former municipality of Bronschhofen which merged into Wil in 2013, making it a key regional center in the area. The town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town, characterized by picturesque timber-framed houses, romantic arcades, and medieval alleys, which represent one of the best-preserved historic centers in . A defining feature is the Hof zu Wil, a historic court and monument of over 800 years that served as the seat of the abbots of St. Gallen and residence for prince-bishops for 500 years, underscoring Wil's longstanding ties to ecclesiastical and regional governance. The broader Wil agglomeration, encompassing surrounding areas, supports around 79,866 inhabitants and ranks as a significant in , with an economy centered on services, commerce, and proximity to transportation networks facilitating regional connectivity.

Geography

Location and Physical Features

Wil is a municipality in the Wahlkreis Wil of the , located in northeastern at coordinates 47°28′N 9°03′E. The town lies on the eastern margin of the , in a region transitioning toward the pre-Alpine foothills, approximately 25 kilometers southeast of and 20 kilometers west of the city of St. Gallen. The municipality covers an area of 20.82 square kilometers. Its physical landscape features gently rolling hills and valleys, with terrain elevations ranging from about 500 to 700 meters above and an average of 590 meters. This undulating is typical of the canton's northeastern sector, supporting mixed agricultural and forested land use amid scattered settlements.

Climate and Environment

Wil experiences a temperate classified as Cfb under the Köppen system, featuring mild summers, cold winters, and consistent precipitation throughout the year. The average annual is approximately 9.0 °C, with temperatures typically ranging from -3 °C in winter to 23 °C in summer, rarely dropping below -8 °C or exceeding 29 °C. Winters are very cold and snowy, while summers are comfortable yet wet, with partly cloudy skies prevailing annually. Annual precipitation totals around 1,299 mm to 1,440 mm, distributed relatively evenly but with peaks in summer months such as , which sees about 125 mm of rainfall. Snowfall is common in winter, contributing to the region's seasonal variations, though the area's around 570 meters moderates extremes compared to higher Alpine zones. The local environment emphasizes conservation, with the municipal Bau-, Umwelt- und Verkehr department overseeing protection, management, , and . Key features include the Stadtweiher , a protected natural area supporting local and used for conservation events. Community groups like Naturgruppe Salix organize excursions and workshops to engage residents in preserving regional flora and fauna amid surrounding agricultural and forested landscapes. Forest trails extend from Wil toward , offering access to wooded areas, while nearby biotopes such as Espel and Magdenauer Weiher enhance ecological diversity in the canton. Air quality remains generally good, reflecting Switzerland's stringent environmental standards, though urban proximity influences local management of emissions and habitats.

History

Early Settlement and Medieval Period

The earliest documented reference to Wil dates to 754 AD, when the Alemannic noble Rothpald donated estates in Rickenbach, Wila (the Latin form of Wil), and Züberwangen to Otmar of Reichenau, later associated with the emerging of St. Gall. This , preserved in the St. Gallen archives, indicates an established rural settlement in the region by the , likely centered on agrarian activities amid the Alemannic expansion into the area following the collapse of Roman influence. Archaeological evidence of pre-8th-century habitation remains sparse, with the site's strategic location on trade routes and fertile plains suggesting continuity from , though unverified by direct finds. Wil's transition to a fortified occurred in the late , founded by the lords of Toggenburg—elevated to counts in 1209—as a deliberate political and economic outpost to control regional commerce and assert influence in the Thur Valley. By 1226, amid internal family strife, Count Diethelm I von Toggenburg ceded the burgeoning settlement to Abbot Konrad von Bussnang of St. Gallen, placing it under the Prince-Abbey's direct lordship and integrating it into the abbey's extensive territorial holdings. The Hof zu Wil, originally constructed as a Toggenburg stronghold, served as a key defensive and administrative structure, underscoring the town's role in medieval power dynamics. During the 13th and 14th centuries, Wil figured prominently in feudal conflicts, including the 1264 Kyburg inheritance disputes, where its allegiance was contested between the Abbey of St. Gallen and Habsburg forces under King Rudolf I, prompting the short-lived rival foundation of Schwarzenbach across the Thur River. A major city fire in 1292 destroyed much of the early wooden structures, leading to systematic records of property owners via Hofstättenrodeln for taxation purposes and spurring reconstruction under abbatial oversight. These events solidified Wil's status as a dependent yet prosperous possession, with the Abbey leveraging its position to enforce tolls and markets, fostering growth amid the broader St. Gallen territorial expansions.

Modern Development and Expansion

In the , Wil underwent significant infrastructural changes that facilitated urban expansion and economic growth. Between 1834 and 1835, extensive road corrections were implemented, accompanied by the demolition of large portions of the medieval city walls, which opened up space for new settlements and industries. This paved the way for the sector, particularly production, to emerge as a key driver of development around 1850. The arrival of the railway accelerated industrialization and population influx. The Winterthur–Wil–St. Gallen line opened in 1855, establishing Wil as a vital junction and spurring construction beyond the historic core. By 1887, the Frauenfeld–Wil line further enhanced connectivity, supporting shifts from textiles to machine building. Population grew rapidly amid these changes, rising from 1,555 residents in 1850 to 5,015 by 1900, driven by industrial employment and improved transport. The 20th century saw continued expansion through economic diversification and suburban development. Post-World War II growth focused on and services, with Wil's role as a regional hub reinforced by rail expansions and highway access. Recent projects, such as the Wil West commercial zone initiated in the near the A1 motorway interchange, exemplify ongoing territorial extension to accommodate business relocation and pressures. By 2024, the municipality's reached approximately 25,000, with the broader agglomeration exceeding 74,000, reflecting sustained demographic and built-environment expansion.

Government and Politics

Municipal Governance

The municipal government of Wil, a political commune in the , follows the standard Swiss communal structure adapted for a city-level entity (Stadt), as outlined in the cantonal Gemeindeordnung. It comprises an executive branch, the Stadtrat, responsible for proposing initiatives to the legislative body, implementing decisions, and managing daily administration as a collegial . Each of the five Stadtrat members heads a specific department, covering areas such as finance, construction, , and . The Stadtrat is elected directly by eligible voters every four years, with the most recent held on September 22, 2024. The Stadtrat is led by the Stadtpräsident, who coordinates its activities and represents the municipality externally. Hans Mäder of Die Mitte party was re-elected to this position in the first ballot of the 2024 election, securing his role for the 2025–2028 term. Other confirmed members include Andreas Breitenmoser (Die Mitte) and Jigme Shitsetsang (FDP), with the remaining two seats filled via a second-round vote to complete the five-member body. The executive's decisions are subject to oversight by the legislative and referenda, reflecting Switzerland's emphasis on at the local level, where citizens can challenge ordinances or budgets via petitions. Legislative authority resides in the Stadtparlament, a 40-member assembly elected proportionally every four years, which approves budgets, ordinances, and major policies while reviewing executive proposals. It operates through five factions: Die Mitte, FDP-GLP, SP, SVP, and GRÜNE prowil, enabling multipartisan deliberation typical of Swiss communal politics. Sessions are public, streamed live, and archived, promoting transparency; for instance, proceedings since 2007 are accessible online. Certain sovereign decisions, such as constitutional amendments, revert to the Bürgerschaft (citizen assembly), underscoring the commune's within the federal-cantonal framework. The 2024 parliamentary election aligned with the executive vote, maintaining balanced representation across centrist, liberal, social-democratic, conservative, and parties. Administrative operations support these bodies through specialized departments and commissions, with the Stadtrat allocating portfolios post-election—for example, reallocating responsibilities effective January 1, 2025, to align with the new legislature. This structure ensures efficient local self-governance, handling competencies devolved from the canton, including , , and welfare, while adhering to fiscal discipline mandated by cantonal law. Voter turnout in recent cycles, such as the 2024 elections, typically exceeds 40%, indicating active in municipal affairs.

Elected Officials and Administration

The executive power in Wil is vested in the Stadtrat, a five-member council elected by popular vote for four-year terms, responsible for proposing policies to the legislative body, implementing decisions, and overseeing municipal administration through specialized departments. The Stadtpräsident, serving as council chair and municipal representative, is selected from among the Stadtrat members. Following the September 22, 2024, elections and a November 24, 2024, runoff for two seats, the Stadtrat for the 2025–2028 term comprises Hans Mäder (Die Mitte) as Stadtpräsident, Andreas Breitenmoser (Die Mitte), Jigme Shitsetsang (FDP.The Liberals), Cornelia Kunz (FDP.The Liberals), and Manuel Nick (SP, Social Democratic Party). On November 26, 2024, the newly constituted Stadtrat reallocated departmental responsibilities for the incoming term, covering areas such as and administration, services, integration and , construction, environment and transport, supply and energy, and society and security. Hans Mäder retains oversight of , administration, services, integration, and . The manages a professional administrative staff, including the municipal chancellery and specialized offices for resident services, planning, and public utilities, ensuring operational continuity under direct electoral accountability. The legislative authority resides with the Stadtparlament, a 40-member assembly elected via every four years, which approves budgets, ordinances, and major projects while supervising the executive. It operates through five factions: Die Mitte, FDP-GLP (Liberals and Green Liberals), SP, , and GRÜNE prowil (progressive greens). The parliament elects its president annually from among its members and delegates tasks to standing commissions for review. This bicameral-like structure, with elements such as citizen initiatives and referendums, aligns with Swiss communal governance principles, emphasizing and local autonomy in a canton known for balanced party representation.

Demographics

The population of Wil has exhibited consistent growth since the late , reflecting its role as a regional economic hub in the . Census data indicate 19,600 residents in 1980, rising to 20,490 by 1990, 20,689 in 2000, 22,584 in 2010, and 24,132 in 2020. By the end of 2024, the estimate reached 25,176, representing an approximate 1% annual increase over the prior four years.
YearPopulation
198019,600
199020,490
200020,689
201022,584
202024,132
202425,176 (est.)
A notable occurred with the 2013 municipal merger incorporating Bronschhofen, adding roughly 2,000 inhabitants and boosting the total to about 24,000 immediately thereafter. Subsequent expansion has been propelled primarily by positive net migration, with foreign nationals comprising 27.3% of the as of 2013 and continuing to rise amid Switzerland's broader immigration-driven demographic patterns. Natural population increase remains modest, aligning with low Swiss rates below replacement levels. Projections for the Wil agglomeration suggest further growth to around 80,000 by 2024 estimates, underscoring sustained regional appeal for employment and infrastructure.

Ethnic and Linguistic Composition

The linguistic composition of Wil reflects its location in the German-speaking region of , where Alemannic dialects of predominate in daily use. According to Swiss Federal Statistical Office data on primary languages spoken, 85.9% of residents in Wil report German as their main , with minor shares for other national languages such as Italian (typically under 5%) and French (under 2%), often associated with cross-border workers or earlier migration waves. These figures, derived from structural surveys and aggregates, have remained relatively stable over decades, though increasing at home—driven by recent —has led to growing use of non-national languages like English, , and Albanian in about 10-15% of households canton-wide. Ethnic composition in Wil, as tracked through nationality rather than self-reported (per Swiss federal guidelines that prioritize and migration status over racial or ancestral categories), shows a Swiss majority comprising approximately 67.7% of the population as of December 2024. Foreign nationals account for 32.3%, exceeding the Canton of St. Gallen's average of 28.9% and reflecting Wil's role as a regional economic hub attracting labor from and neighboring countries. This share has risen steadily, from around 24% in earlier 2010s estimates, due to net migration gains of over 1% annually in recent years. Among foreign residents, the largest groups originate from European nations, consistent with bilateral agreements facilitating free movement: (historically the top source, around 20-25% of foreigners), , , and countries of the former (e.g., , ). Smaller contingents from , , and non-EU states like contribute to diversity, but EU/EFTA nationals dominate due to economic ties in and services. Naturalization rates remain low (under 1% annually for eligible long-term residents), preserving the distinction between Swiss citizens—often multi-generational with roots in local agrarian or industrial communities—and immigrants concentrated in urban zones. This structure underscores causal links between Wil's industrial growth and selective immigration, without evidence of disproportionate non-European influx compared to other Swiss towns.

Economy

Key Industries and Businesses

Wil serves as a regional economic hub in the , with approximately 15,914 employed individuals across 1,867 businesses as of 2022, reflecting a diverse structure dominated by services alongside niche . The local economy benefits from its position as a transportation node, fostering and , while maintaining pockets of specialized industry inherited from historical and mechanical traditions. Unemployment remains low at around 2.4% in recent estimates. Manufacturing constitutes a key sector, particularly in precision components and finishing processes. Kettenwerk Schweiz, a of the German tool manufacturer , operates a facility in Wil focused on producing chains for chainsaws and related , contributing to the region's strengths. Refida AG specializes in finishing, applying coatings and treatments to fabrics for industrial and consumer applications, underscoring Wil's ongoing role in value-added textile processing despite broader Swiss shifts away from . Logistics and emerge as vital due to Wil's rail and connectivity. Camion Transport AG provides freight services, handling regional and cross-border goods movement, which supports supply chains in the economic area. Emerging emphases include and initiatives, exemplified by nearby RCO Recycling Center Ostschweiz AG's operations in processing construction materials, aligning with cantonal goals. Services, including retail, , and digital technologies, form the backbone, with growing interest in AI and digital solutions as highlighted by local economic associations. Small to medium enterprises in , IT, and trade—such as NewAge Informatik for software and 2SD Architekten AG for design—drive employment diversity, though no single dominant conglomerate overshadows the fragmented business landscape. This structure positions Wil as a supportive node within St. Gallen's broader manufacturing-oriented economy, emphasizing adaptability over heavy industry.

Labor Market and Growth

Wil serves as a regional employment hub in the , hosting 15,914 jobs in 2022 across 1,867 businesses, exceeding the needs of its resident population of 24,653 and attracting a net inflow of commuters from surrounding areas. This structure reflects Wil's integration into the broader eastern Swiss labor market, where services and manufacturing predominate, supported by proximity to major transport links and the University of Applied Sciences in St. Gallen. The local unemployment rate, estimated at 2.4% in 2024, aligns with the canton's low overall joblessness, which averaged around 1.8% to 2.2% in recent years, driven by robust demand in tertiary sectors and seasonal stability. In the Wil agglomeration, annual average unemployment numbered 855 persons in 2022, with regional placement centers (RAV) reporting an average of 845 registered unemployed in 2024, indicating contained labor market pressures amid national trends of skilled worker shortages in technical fields. Employment growth in Wil mirrors cantonal patterns, with the Canton of St. Gallen recording a 2.2% increase in employment volume in Q2 2025 compared to Q2 2024, following 1.9% growth in Q1 2025, fueled by expansions in industry and services despite moderating national GDP gains. Local dynamics benefit from Wil's position in the Wahlkreis Wil, where job seeker numbers rose moderately by 12.4% year-over-year in mid-2025, below the cantonal average, signaling resilient demand amid broader economic caution. Total cantonal jobs reached approximately 316,700 by end-2022, with Wil contributing disproportionately as the second-largest employment zone by population equivalence.

Culture and Heritage

Symbols and Identity

The of Wil is vertically divided per , with the dexter (left) side argent (silver/white) charged with a rampant sable (black), langued and armed gules (red tongue and claws), and the sinister (right) side sable charged with a snail shell or (golden) above a capital letter W argent in base. This design has been attested on municipal seals and banners since 1425. The derives from the arms of the Abbey of St. Gallen, representing St. Gallus, the 7th-century Irish monk whose hermitage founded the regional monastic tradition that shaped eastern Switzerland's cultural and political landscape. The of Wil consists of a of these arms, following the common Swiss municipal practice where the replicates the horizontally or vertically as needed for display. These heraldic symbols underscore Wil's historical subordination to and cultural affinity with the of St. Gallen, which exerted influence over the area until the abbey's in 1798. The inclusion of the letter explicitly denotes the town's name, reinforcing local identity amid the canton's patchwork of abbey-derived municipalities. Wil's name originates as a suffix common in northeastern , derived from "wīl" or "weiler," denoting a small settlement or , reflecting its medieval development as a dependent village rather than an independent urban center. This aligns with the town's self-perception as a compact, historically rooted community within the , emphasizing continuity from agrarian origins to modern regional hub status. The snail shell in the arms, while less documented, likely serves as a distinctive local emblem, possibly alluding to historical , , or a prominent family house, though primary sources on its precise adoption remain sparse in heraldic records.

Architectural and Historical Sites

Wil's architectural and historical sites reflect its medieval origins and longstanding ties to the Abbey of St. Gallen. The old town center stands as one of the finest preserved examples in , boasting timber-framed houses, arcaded walkways, and winding medieval lanes that evoke the town's ecclesiastical past. Dominating the central square, the Hof zu Wil represents a cornerstone of local heritage, classified as a cultural of national importance with origins tracing back over 800 years. Constructed as the residence for the Prince-Abbots of St. Gallen, it functioned in this capacity for roughly 500 years, underscoring Wil's role as a key administrative outpost for the abbey. Religious structures further enrich the town's historic fabric. The Dominican Convent of St. Katharina, founded in 1607, persists as an active community of nuns within a Baroque-era complex. The of St. Nikolaus exemplifies late Gothic and Neo-Gothic design elements, marking it as Wil's oldest surviving religious edifice. Wil's commitment to heritage preservation earned it the Wakker Prize from the Swiss Heritage Society in 1984, recognizing advancements in architectural maintenance and urban development.

Society and Community

Religious Landscape

In 2020, the religious composition of Wil's resident population reflected a decline in traditional Christian affiliations amid rising and immigration-driven diversity, with 39.0% (9,400 individuals) identifying as Roman Catholic, 16.6% (4,001 individuals) as members of the Evangelical-Reformed Church, and 44.5% (10,731 individuals) in the category of other religions or no religious affiliation. This distribution aligns with broader Swiss trends, where has fallen steadily since the early due to generational shifts away from , though Catholicism retains historical roots in the region as part of the traditionally Catholic . Catholic institutions dominate the historical religious infrastructure, including the late-Gothic St. Nikolaus parish church (built 15th-16th centuries), the Capuchin monastery (Kapuzinerkloster, established 1600s), and the St. Katharina Monastery (, founded 1464), which continue to host regular services and community events. The Evangelical-Reformed Church maintains a presence through its local parish, offering worship and social programs in a smaller but established congregation. Within the "other or no affiliation" group, a notable Muslim community—comprising approximately 15% of the population as of 2017—has grown with migration from regions like the and , leading to the 2017 opening of the Islamic Cultural Centre , which serves local worshippers and draws regional visitors for its architectural and cultural significance. Smaller groups include Orthodox Christians and traditionalist Catholics affiliated with the Society of St. Pius X at the Sancta Maria parish. Interfaith efforts, such as the "Weg der Religionen" initiative, promote dialogue among Christian, Muslim, and secular residents through guided tours of religious sites. Overall, Wil's landscape illustrates causal dynamics of dechurching in affluent, urbanizing Swiss towns alongside persistent ethnic-religious enclaves sustained by .

Sports and Leisure Activities

Wil maintains a vibrant sports scene anchored by community clubs and municipal infrastructure, with football as a cornerstone activity. FC Wil 1900, founded in 1900, competes in the Swiss Challenge League and serves as a key hub for local football enthusiasts, hosting matches at the Lidl Arena with capacities supporting regional crowds. Gymnastics and multi-sport programs thrive through organizations like the Stadtturnverein Wil 1859, which provides training in apparatus gymnastics, artistic gymnastics, volleyball, and fitness classes for children, adults, and seniors, emphasizing movement for health. The Katholischer Turnverein Wil promotes recreational polysports, including team games and fitness, to encourage lifelong activity among members. Running and draw participants via the Laufsportclub Wil, which organizes local races and training, and OL Regio Wil, focusing on orienteering events in the surrounding terrain. The IG Wiler Sportvereine coordinates over a dozen member clubs, facilitating events, hall-of-fame recognitions, and youth development to bolster participation across disciplines like and . Municipal offerings include public movement programs and access to sports halls, pitches, and courts managed by the city's and Infrastructure department. Leisure options emphasize outdoor pursuits, with the Hauptwiler Weiher lake encircled by walking paths suitable for strolling, picnicking, and non-motorized water activities, attracting residents for relaxation amid natural scenery. Nearby trails, such as those in the Wissbachschlucht gorge, support and nature exploration, integrating with the broader Toggenburg region's networks for and forest walks. Community facilities like playgrounds, the ludothek for toy borrowing, and rentable gardens further enhance casual recreation, while seasonal markets and youth fishing initiatives provide inclusive, low-barrier engagements.

Infrastructure

Transportation Systems

Wil serves as a regional transportation node in the , primarily through its railway infrastructure integrated with Switzerland's national network operated by (SBB). The Wil SG railway station facilitates connections on multiple lines, including regional services to St. Gallen (approximately 20 km east, with frequent S1 and IC1 trains) and (about 30 km northwest), as well as onward links to Airport and via routes. Passenger volume at the station grew by 10 percent in 2023 compared to 2022, aligning with broader increases in amid post-pandemic recovery and regional commuting demands. Bus services complement rail access, with PostBus Switzerland operating local and regional lines from the station and key stops within Wil, linking to nearby towns like Uzwil, Flawil, and Appenzell districts. These routes integrate into the Ostwind tariff association, enabling seamless transfers and coverage of rural areas with hourly or better frequencies during peak hours. Road connectivity relies on a grid of cantonal roads (e.g., Hauptstrasse 16 and 465), providing access to the A1 national motorway via exits at Uzwil (about 5 km north) or Flawil (8 km south), supporting freight and private vehicle travel in a country where over 71,000 km of roads form the backbone of non-rail mobility. No local airport exists, with Zürich Airport (ZRH) handling air travel needs, reachable in under an hour by train.

Public Services and Utilities

The of Wil operates its public utilities primarily through the Versorgung und Energie department and the Technische Betriebe Wil (TB Wil), which manage including distribution, and supply, potable water provision, and . is supplied via local networks connected to the Swiss national grid, with TB Wil handling distribution and maintenance for residential and commercial users in the city. Gas services include both conventional and options, supporting regional heating and industrial needs. Potable water is sourced from local reservoirs and wells, with daily consumption averaging 4.5 million liters as of , equivalent to filling two public swimming pools; the system ensures high-quality treatment meeting Swiss federal standards, distributed through an extensive municipal network. Wastewater management falls under the city's Siedlungsentwässerung system, which collects and treats based on pollution levels, with connections mandatory for new constructions and renovations; treatment occurs at regional facilities compliant with cantonal regulations. Waste management is coordinated by the municipality's Entsorgung und Recycling services, providing scheduled collection for household refuse, recyclables, and organic waste via a system and ; residents access designated collection points and recycling centers for materials like , metals, and , emphasizing separation to minimize use in line with Switzerland's high rates. Public health services in Wil include social welfare programs such as alimentary advances, work integration support, and guardianship assistance, administered through the Soziales und Gesundheit department; is available via local practices and proximity to regional hospitals, though no major facility is municipally operated. falls under public services with the city overseeing primary and secondary schools, including integration for , coordinated with cantonal standards.

Public Safety

In 2021, Wil recorded 1,437 offenses under the Swiss Criminal Code (StGB), equating to a rate of 59.5 offenses per 1,000 inhabitants based on a of 24,132. This marked an 8% increase from 1,326 StGB offenses in 2020. Drug-related offenses under the Narcotics Act (BetmG) totaled 82, a 41% decline from 139 the prior year, while violations of the (AIG) fell 40% to 34. Theft constituted a significant portion of recorded crimes, with 314 thefts reported in Wil in 2021, second only to St. Gallen city canton-wide. Earlier data from 2017 showed an overall crime rate of 45 offenses per 1,000 inhabitants, down from 56 in 2016, indicating a prior downward trend before the post-2020 uptick observed nationally. In the Fürstenland region encompassing Wil, thefts rose 38% in 2024 from 163 the previous year, aligning with broader increases in burglaries and serious violent offenses. Canton-wide, St. Gallen saw a 2% rise to 30,900 total offenses in 2024, reflecting national patterns of post-pandemic recovery in reported crime following a dip during COVID-19 restrictions. These figures derive from uniform police recording standards across Swiss cantons, minimizing reporting biases, though underreporting of minor offenses remains a potential limitation in all jurisdictions.

Notable People

Prominent Historical Residents

Johannes Haller (1487–1531), born in Wil to coppersmith Hans Haller and Appolonia Rösch, emerged as a key figure in the early Swiss Reformation. Expelled from his clerical positions due to his reformist leanings, he served as a helper in in 1527 and as pastor in Bülach from 1528, advocating vigorously for Protestant changes amid regional religious conflicts. Haller met his death on October 11, 1531, fighting alongside in the Battle of Kappel, underscoring his commitment to the reformist cause. Anna Sutter (1871–1910), a native of Wil in the , distinguished herself as an operatic soprano of international repute. After initial piano studies at the Bern Conservatory, she trained in voice under renowned instructors in , debuting there in 1897 as Elsa in Richard Wagner's . Sutter performed leading roles at the and major European opera houses, earning acclaim for her interpretations of Wagnerian heroines before her untimely death in at age 38. Fridolin Müller (1857–1931), born in Wil to industrialist Johann Fridolin Müller, advanced the local sector as a pioneering entrepreneur. Taking over family operations, he expanded into felt production, establishing the Weberei & Filzfabrik von Müller & Co. in Wil, which mechanized processes and contributed to the town's economic growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Müller's innovations in fabric manufacturing solidified Wil's role in Switzerland's burgeoning industrial landscape until his passing in in 1931.

Contemporary Figures

, born 20 December 1991 in , is a professional footballer positioned as a centre-back for Newcastle United in the and the national team. He commenced his career at hometown club FC Wil 1900, progressing through youth ranks before transferring to in 2011, where he debuted professionally. Schär has earned over 80 caps for , participating in multiple European Championships and World Cups, including captaining the side at . Karin Keller-Sutter, born 22 December 1963 in Wil, holds the office of in 2025 while serving as head of the Federal Department of Finance. A trained interpreter and teacher, she entered as a councillor on the Wil municipal executive in 1992, later advancing to the Cantonal Government of St. Gallen and the Council of States before election to the Federal Council in 2019. Her tenure has emphasized , banking regulation, and international financial relations, including negotiations on Swiss-EU economic ties. Yvonne Gilli, born 7 March 1957, practices medicine in Wil, operating a focused on gynecology, , and complementary therapies such as since 1996. Qualified in general , she additionally serves as president of the Swiss Medical Association (FMH) and holds affiliations with the , having represented Wil in cantonal from 2000 to 2005. Gilli advocates for integrative healthcare approaches, blending conventional and alternative methods in patient care.

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