Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Highlights

  • • Camino de Santiago destination
  • • Master Mateo's Portico of Glory
  • • Botafumeiro: 80 kg thurible
  • • Baroque Obradoiro facade
  • • Tomb of the Apostle James

Description

The destination of the Camino de Santiago and one of Christendom's most important temples. The 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with its Baroque Obradoiro facade houses the tomb of the Apostle James. The Botafumeiro, a giant 80 kg thurible swinging through the nave, is one of the world's most impressive liturgical spectacles.

Guide

Essential information for visiting Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Location

How to get there

By carBy public transport
Planning Information

Visitor Tips

Visiting the Portico of Glory requires advance booking and separate entry (€10). The Botafumeiro doesn't operate daily — check solemn mass schedule. Climbing to the cathedral rooftop (guided tour, €12) offers unique views. Arrive before 10:00 to avoid queues. Embrace the apostle: access behind the high altar.

Historical Facts

The cathedral was built between 1075 and 1211 over the tomb of the Apostle James discovered in 829. Master Mateo's Portico of Glory (1168-1188) is the masterpiece of European Romanesque. The Botafumeiro weighs 80 kg and swings at 65 km/h — created in the Middle Ages to purify the air from thousands of pilgrims sleeping in the cathedral.