Explore the pilgrimage sites of Spain! 7 must-visit attractions in Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is located in the Galicia region of northern Spain and is a historic tourist destination with its old town designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city flourished around a cathedral dedicated to St. James, one of the Twelve Apostles. It is also the final stop on the pilgrimage routes from various parts of Europe and is considered one of Christianity’s three major pilgrimage sites, alongside the Vatican and Jerusalem.

The city is filled with places that make you feel as if you've stepped back in time, such as museums, tranquil parks, and stunning churches. As one of the most significant destinations in the Catholic faith, Santiago de Compostela attracts many pilgrims not only from Spain but also from all over the world. Even if you are not on a pilgrimage, why not visit and experience the rich history of this remarkable city?

It is recommended to allow enough days to explore Santiago de Compostela at a relaxed pace, gather information from the tourist office, and fully enjoy your stay.

1. Obradoiro Square

Obradoiro Square is one of the largest squares in the Galicia region and serves as both the central hub and symbol of Santiago de Compostela. The name "Obradoiro" originates from the stone quarry (Obradoires) used for the construction of the cathedral. Since the discovery of St. James' tomb at the beginning of the 9th century, the city has remained one of Christianity’s three major pilgrimage sites alongside Jerusalem and the Vatican. Its historic old town was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Cultural Heritage) in 1985.

The square is surrounded by significant historical landmarks, including the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the Royal Hospital of the 17th century (now a hotel), the San Jerónimo Monastery from the early 16th century, and the 18th-century Raxoi Palace (now the city hall).

During Spain’s 15-M Movement, the square was occupied for over a month. Additionally, every year on July 25, the Feast of St. James is celebrated with a grand festival, including a spectacular fireworks display on the eve of the event.

2. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that blends Romanesque design with Gothic and Baroque embellishments. It serves as the final destination of the Way of St. James pilgrimage route and houses the remains of St. James (Santiago), the patron saint of Spain.

The saint's tomb was discovered in the 9th century, leading to the construction of the cathedral. However, the first structure was destroyed by the Moors in 997, and its reconstruction began in 1075.

The Portico of Glory, located at the cathedral’s western entrance, is considered one of the greatest Romanesque sculptures in the world. Created in 1188 by the master sculptor Mateo, it features over 200 statues representing characters from both the Old and New Testaments.

Inside, visitors can see the pillar with St. James' statue, which has been touched by millions of pilgrims over centuries, creating visible indentations. The cathedral also offers tours of the crypt, where the relics of St. James are believed to be kept.

3. Old Town of Santiago de Compostela

The Old Town of Santiago de Compostela is a labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets lined with souvenir shops and historic buildings. Compared to other cities, it has an overwhelming presence due to its unique atmosphere and rich heritage. Centered around Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, this historic area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The town boasts a mix of architectural styles, with stunning buildings that captivate visitors. The centuries-old structures have created a picturesque cityscape unlike any other. Simply strolling through its streets offers numerous discoveries, and enjoying local tapas at a bar is also highly recommended.

4. San Martin Pinario Monastery

Spanning an area of approximately 20,000 square meters, the San Martiño Pinario Monastery is the second-largest religious building in Santiago de Compostela after the cathedral. The majority of its structure follows the Baroque architectural style.

While the interior is relatively simple, the large gilded altar is an eye-catching masterpiece. The original church was built in the 12th century, but it was reconstructed in the 17th century into its current form. The monastery complex includes a hotel, a private seminary, a church, and a museum.

Inside the monastery, visitors can admire the 17th-century choir stalls depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, as well as beautifully carved altars created by the monks. Behind the altar, there is a hidden door once used by monks to enter the church, adding to its historical intrigue.

5. Alameda Park

Alameda Park is one of the largest parks in Santiago de Compostela. Designed to resemble a vast countryside landscape, it is home to more than 90 species of plants. The park is beloved by locals and serves as a venue for concerts and events throughout the year.

Originally, the park was established on land donated to the city by the Count of Altamira in the 16th century. Over time, it expanded and now consists of three sections: Santa Susana Oak Grove, Paseo da Ferradura, and Alameda Park. The Santa Susana Oak Grove is home to majestic trees, some over 200 years old.

When the park was constructed, the three main walkways were designated according to social class. The right path was for the lower class, the middle path for the nobility, and the left path for educated professionals such as teachers and clergy. Of course, today, visitors are free to walk anywhere they like.

Take a stroll in this vast park, breathe in the fresh air, escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy a peaceful sightseeing experience.

6. Quintana Square

Quintana Square, meaning "Silversmith's Square", is lined with shops selling silver crafts and features notable landmarks such as a horse-headed fountain, a clock tower, and the Holy Door adorned with striking sculptures. One of the most significant buildings here is the San Paio de Antealtares Monastery, one of the oldest structures in the city.

The San Paio de Antealtares Monastery has 48 iron-barred windows and a large white cross dedicated to soldiers who perished in the Napoleonic Wars. Quintana Square is the second-largest square in Santiago de Compostela, making it an ideal spot to relax. From the cafes surrounding the square, visitors can enjoy live music performances by street musicians and people-watch as locals and tourists pass by.

However, the square is sometimes referred to as "Quintana de los Muertos" (Square of the Dead) because it was built over an old municipal cemetery. The ground is paved with granite slabs, a silent reminder of its past.

If you visit the square at night, you may notice a shadowy figure beneath the cathedral’s clock tower, resembling a pilgrim. However, this is simply a shadow cast by the cathedral. According to local legend, the shadow represents a priest who disguised himself to visit his lover, a nun from the monastery. Heartbroken when she did not appear, he is said to return to the same spot every night.

7. Monte do Gozo

Monte do Gozo, meaning "Hill of Joy," is located 5 km from the city center and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. The hill is marked by a famous bronze statue of two pilgrims pointing towards the cathedral, making it a popular photo spot. Additionally, a monument commemorating the 400th anniversary of Spanish-Japanese relations stands here. The area around Monte do Gozo is well-developed, with campgrounds, hotels, and accommodations catering to both tourists and pilgrims.

For many pilgrims, after their long and arduous journey, the sight of the cathedral from this hill has brought them to tears, knowing their pilgrimage is almost complete. This moment of overwhelming emotion led to the hill’s name, Monte do Gozo (Hill of Joy). Imagining the joy and relief of past pilgrims while taking in the view can be a moving experience.

◎ Summary

As the final destination of the Way of St. James pilgrimage, Santiago de Compostela attracts visitors from all over the world. This city has welcomed pilgrims for centuries, and you can often see them resting with their backpacks after their long journey. Unlike Madrid or Barcelona, Santiago de Compostela offers a unique atmosphere filled with history and spirituality. While joining an optional tour to explore famous landmarks is a great way to experience the city, taking your time to walk its historic streets at your own pace can be even more rewarding. Before your visit, check the local tourist office for updated information to make the most of your trip!

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Explore the pilgrimage sites of Spain! 7 must-visit attractions in Santiago de Compostela