Santiago de Compostela, Spain: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

© Andrew Ashton

For centuries, thousands of pilgrims have journeyed along the Way of Saint James each year, ultimately arriving at the capital of Galicia and entering the iconic Cathedral. Tradition holds that this cathedral houses the relics of James the Apostle, discovered in the 9th century.

However, Santiago de Compostela is not just a city for pilgrims; it offers a wealth of attractions for all travelers. Enjoy the countless restaurants and bars serving Galicia's delicious seafood, explore the UNESCO World Heritage old town center, and experience daring contemporary art. This city seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant, modern atmosphere, offering plenty to see and do.

History of Santiago de Compostela

Early Origins

Santiago de Compostela, located in the region of Galicia in northwestern Spain, traces its origins back to the Roman era. The site where the city now stands was a Roman cemetery before becoming an important Christian pilgrimage destination.

Discovery of Saint James’ Tomb

In the early 9th century, the tomb of Saint James the Greater, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, was discovered by a hermit named Pelayo. According to legend, the discovery was guided by a star, leading to the name “Compostela,” derived from “Campus Stellae” or “Field of Stars.” This event marked the beginning of Santiago de Compostela as a major pilgrimage site.

Medieval Pilgrimage

During the medieval period, Santiago de Compostela became one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations in the Christian world, alongside Jerusalem and Rome. Pilgrims from across Europe traveled the Camino de Santiago, or Way of Saint James, to reach the apostle’s tomb. The construction of the original church over the tomb began under the reign of King Alfonso II of Asturias.

Construction of the Cathedral

The construction of the current Santiago de Compostela Cathedral began in 1075 under the reign of Alfonso VI of León and Castile. The cathedral was built in the Romanesque style, with later additions in Gothic and Baroque styles. It was consecrated in 1211 and has since become an iconic symbol of the city and the pilgrimage.

Growth and Development

Throughout the Middle Ages, Santiago de Compostela grew in importance, attracting religious, cultural, and economic activities. The city developed around the cathedral, with the establishment of monasteries, churches, hospitals, and hostels to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims.

Modern Era

In the 20th century, Santiago de Compostela continued to thrive as a cultural and educational center. The University of Santiago de Compostela, founded in 1495, became one of Spain’s leading universities. The city’s historical significance and architectural heritage were recognized in 1985 when UNESCO designated the Old Town of Santiago de Compostela as a World Heritage Site.

Contemporary Santiago de Compostela

Today, Santiago de Compostela remains a vibrant city and a major pilgrimage destination, attracting millions of visitors and pilgrims each year. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, lively cultural scene, and the annual Feast of Saint James, celebrated on July 25th. The Camino de Santiago continues to be a popular pilgrimage route, with various trails leading to the revered cathedral.

Santiago de Compostela’s rich history, spiritual significance, and cultural heritage make it a unique and captivating destination in Galicia and Spain.

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Visiting Santiago de Compostela for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Santiago de Compostela on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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