If you are looking for a destination rich in history, beauty, culture, and spirituality, you must visit this city. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobbled streets, beautiful squares, and historic buildings, will take you back in time and fill you with beauty and sensations. Here we propose our must-visit places so you don't miss the most essential of Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago Cathedral
It houses the remains of the apostle Santiago and has become the destination of one of the world's most famous Christian pilgrimage routes. Its architecture encompasses the best of various styles. Inside, it features works of art and sculptural treasures like the Pórtico de la Gloria, filled with symbolism and secrets to discover. The tomb of the Apostle and the Botafumeiro are must-see attractions. More than 1000 years of history are presented to you so you can gather the best from them.
The four squares of the Cathedral
The Cathedral is surrounded by four squares. The Plaza del Obradoiro is the point of arrival for pilgrims who are met with the stunning views of the Baroque facade of the Cathedral. The Plaza de la Quintana is divided into two levels: dead and alive. Its solemn beauty makes it an ideal place for reflection. More lively is the Plaza de Platerías, located on the south facade of the Cathedral, where the only Romanesque entrance is preserved. Finally, the Plaza de Azabachería, less crowded but no less beautiful, from where you can access one of the hidden treasures of Santiago.
Cathedral Museum
There are many reasons to visit it. In it, you will learn about the architectural and historical evolution of the Cathedral. You will have access to the collection of sacred art that has great artistic and cultural value. Important archives such as the Calixtine Codex are kept in its library. The panoramic views of the city that you can see from the museum will impress you… and we could continue with the list of reasons that make its visit a must.
Market of Abastos
The Market of Abastos is the second most visited place in Santiago, after the Cathedral. The stalls of fruits and vegetables, birds, and a wide variety of local products make it one of the best places to experience the daily life of the people of Compostela and Galicia in general. You will be able to enjoy the quality of the product firsthand and even taste the fresh seafood that you bought there right in the market. In an atmosphere full of energy and dynamism, you will learn the secrets of local gastronomy. It is one of the must-see visits in Santiago.
Alameda and viewpoint
You will be greeted by Las Dos Marías, a curious sculpture that pays homage to two sisters who, with their colorful appearance, added color to the gray period of the dictatorship. You can also sit next to the sculpture of Valle-Inclán, approach the eucalyptus "of the lovers," and enjoy the views of the historic ensemble of Santiago. The alameda has been one of the preferred walks for the people of Compostela since the 19th century, and it will also be for any visitor because it is full of beauty and stories.
Museum of the Galician People
It is located in the former convent of San Domingos de Bonaval and is dedicated to safeguarding the traditions, customs, and culture of the Galician people to prevent the loss of identity. The Museum of the Galician People it develops activities in permanent rooms, temporary exhibitions, and research work. The convent building is baroque in style and inside it features the spectacular triple helical staircase. The church is gothic in style and in its pantheon lie the remains of Rosalía de Castro.
Through these places you will get to know essential Santiago, the one you cannot miss if you want to discover the history, culture, and heritage of this city. The streets, the buildings, the atmosphere of this city will take you to other moments in history, and you will understand why knowing these places is essential for anyone visiting Santiago de Compostela.
Credits for the main image: Rooftops of Santiago Cathedral