Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is a magnificent blend of architectural styles, with elaborate Baroque and Gothic features embellishing its primarily Romanesque design. Follow the popular Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and visit this last stop, the cathedral dedicated to Spain’s patron saint Santiago (St. James).
The first cathedral to stand on this site was constructed in the ninth century, after the tomb of St. James was discovered here in the 9th century. Destroyed by the Moors in 997, the cathedral was rebuilt beginning in 1075. Its original Romanesque façade was replaced in the 18th century by the Baroque one you see today. Note that the interior remains distinctly Romanesque, with its barrel-vaulted ceiling and numerous chapels.
Be sure to see the cathedral’s finest work of art, the Pórtico de la Gloria, just beyond the west entrance. Considered one of the world’s most beautiful Romanesque sculptures, this stunning portico was designed in 1188 by Maestro Mateo. The portico is composed of more than 200 sculptures, which depict figures from the Old and New Testaments. Look closely at the column topped with an image of St. James and you’ll see indentations created by the millions of pilgrims who have placed their hands here over the centuries.
Don’t miss the cathedral’s lavish main altar, which is guarded by a statue of St. James. Behind the altar, you’ll see a set of stairs where pilgrims line up to kiss or hug the statue of St. James after finally reaching the end of their journey. Descend the steps to reach the crypt below the altar, which is said to hold the remains of St. James in a silver urn.
Save time to see the adjoining cathedral museums, which house gorgeous tapestries and archeological artifacts. Be sure to see the room devoted to the different stages of the cathedral’s construction look for interesting 17th- and 18th-century plans and drawings of the building.
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is free to enter, but there is an admission fee for the museum. Opening hours vary by season and tourists are discouraged from visiting during religious services.
