Bibliotheca Masonica August Belz

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Bibliotheca Masonica August Belz, or BMAB for short. This extraordinary library, named after its founder August Belz, is a place of wisdom, research, and countless cultural treasures of Freemasonry. The BMAB is far more than a mere collection of books. It is the legacy of a man who was not only a passionate Freemason, but also a scholar of remarkable depth and wisdom. Throughout his life, August Belz pursued the quest for knowledge and his love of Freemasonry—an endeavor that ultimately led, after his death, to the creation of the BMAB. Originating in Switzerland, this institution reveals a treasure trove of literature that addresses not only Freemasonry itself, but also explores related fields. From rites and rituals to symbolism and the influence of Freemasonry on society, the BMAB is a place where the mysteries of Freemasonry and their historical contexts are unveiled. Yet the BMAB is not intended solely for Freemasons. Its doors are open to all who thirst for knowledge and who are interested in this unique sphere of secrets, rituals, and history. Here, visitors can delve into the depths of human history, explore the connections between Freemasonry and other societies, and discover the wisdom of past generations. In this spirit, we warmly invite you to explore the BMAB, to be inspired by its richness, and to join us on a journey through the world of knowledge and brotherhood.

Description of the Masonic Collection

The industrialist August Belz (1907–1971) began collecting Masonic and esoteric literature with expertise and passion in the 1940s. At the time of his death, the collection comprised around 5,000 titles. Since 1972, it has been maintained and expanded in accordance with the intentions of August Belz by the Bibliotheca Masonica August Belz Foundation (BMAB), continuously supplemented with both older holdings and new publications. In the same year, the collection was granted permanent residence at the Cantonal Library. The thematic focuses of the collection include Freemasonry; Gnostic, theosophical, and alchemical–Rosicrucian movements and orders; mysticism and mysteries; and symbolism. The Masonic library housed in the Cantonal Library is listed in the catalogue of the St. Gallen Library Network. Certain documents, known as interna, may only be borrowed with the written authorization of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.