Santiago de Compostela

travel  wonder in Spain

Why
Santiago de Compostela
is special

Its Old Quarter is home to well-preserved buildings of architectural merit. The 12th-century cathedral (see photo) of Santiago de Compostela is especially notable - it is the destination of the Camino de Santiago, one of Christianity's foremost pilgrimages.

Tips & insights on

Santiago de Compostela

The cathedral has a tomb that supposedly holds the remains of St. James the Apostle. The city was named after him (he's known as Santiago in Spain).

There are various pilgrimage routes to the saint's burial place in the Santiago de Compostela cathedral. The most popular ones begin in France or at least from the France-Spain border. Completion can take 30 or more days, depending on where in Europe you start, which could be as far away as Germany. It can also take an hour or two if you begin just outside of town (but that's sort of cheating).

Pilgrims finish their long hike to Santiago de Compostela inside the cathedral. There is a special daily noontime Pilgrim's Mass for them.

Pilgrims traditionally wear a brown monk- style cloak and droopy headdress while clutching a shepherd-style walking stick. Tourists are quick with their cameras to catch the scene.

The best way to explore the Old Quarter's winding narrow streets and interesting plazas is on foot.

It rains a lot in Santiago de Compostela, so it's advisable to bring a raincoat or umbrella.

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What every visitor should know.

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I hope your Spain travel dreams come true - and that 

my Santiago de Compostela page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications