Trip Planner:   Europe  /  Spain  /  Galicia  /  Province of A Coruna  /  Santiago de Compostela  /  Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela

Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela

4.6

#1 of 1,161 in Things to do in Galicia

Religious Site Historic Site Must See

• ©
• ©
• ©
• © +9
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©
• ©

It’s hard to describe Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela as anything but awe-inspiring, and visitors often walk away from it muttering "How in the world did they build this?" Completed in 1211, the World Heritage–listed cathedral is the reputed burial place of Saint James, one of Christ’s apostles. Historically an important place of pilgrimage for believers from around the world, the building is a Romanesque structure with later Gothic and Baroque additions. The cathedral soars high above the city center and features a portico with 200 sculptures created by Master Mateo, a renowned sculptor and architect of the 13th century. Incredibly detailed, these sculptures represent major figures from the Bible, with the Old Testament on the left, the New Testament on the right, and the section under the central archway reserved for scenes of the Resurrection. Stop by for daily mass, or check online for available tour options. Use Inspirock's suggestions to plan your Santiago de Compostela trip and find the best activities and attractions for your vacation.

more less

Create an itinerary including Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela

Start planning

Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.

© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors

Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela Reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

10,345 reviews

Google

4.7

facebook

336 likes

• By Stephanie S

  The cathedral is being renovated but the exterior has detailed carvings and you can still view parts of the interior. You can line up to "hug" St James, although be patient-or visit early- as the line...  more »

• By Susana_porto2019

  A imponente e belíssima catedral de Santiago, que apesar de se encontrar em obras de restauro, é possível visitar, é um local que transmite paz. De uma arquitetura lindíssima. Situada no meio de belas...  more »

  The imposing and beautiful cathedral of Santiago, which despite being found in restoration works, is possible to visit, is a place that transmits peace. Of a beautiful architecture. Situated in the middle of beautiful streets, deserving of one and the other visit.
  View original

View more on TripAdvisor »

Google

• By Steven Muir

  It was a very nice place. Very enjoyable with a great history. Great to visit with a tour guide to know small interesting facts. Would absolutely visit again and again. Lots of exterior construction at the moment. Seems to be getting closer to the interior being completed.

  more less
• By Tamasine Smith

  What an amazing place. One of the best cathedrals I have visited. At present it’s not possible to see as much due to the renovations but the work being done is incredible and well worth it. Do go to the “main” door and take one of the tours of the portico. The detail and information about it is well worth it if you’re interested in the history. This is also where pilgrims used to be able to place their hands on completing the Camino - you can see the indentation but in order to preserve the carving this tradition is no longer permitted.

  more less

View more on Google »

Places to stay near Cathedral De Santiago de Compostela

Plan your trip to Santiago de Compostela

• Get a personalized plan

  A complete day-by-day itinerary
  based on your preferences

• Customize it

  Refine your plan. We'll find the
  best routes and schedules

• Book it

  Choose from the best hotels
  and activities. Up to 50% off

• Manage it

  Everything in one place.
  Everyone on the same page.