Pazo de Raxoi, Santiago de Compostela

Historic Building, Palace and Town Hall in Santiago de Compostela

Pazo de Raxoi
Pazo de Raxoi
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez

Pazo de Raxoi is the grand neoclassical palace that closes the western side of Praza do Obradoiro, directly opposite the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Today it functions as the city's town hall and administrative headquarters, which means most travelers experience it as an exterior landmark rather than a museum-style interior visit.

It's an easy highlight to include on a walking tour of the Old Town: come for the symmetry of the long arcaded façade, the cathedral-facing viewpoints, and the way the building anchors the city's most famous square. For the best look, stand in the center of Obradoiro for the full façade, then move closer to the arches for details and framing shots toward the Cathedral.

History and Significance of the Pazo de Raxoi

Commissioned in the 18th century by Archbishop Bartolomé Raxoi Losada, the Pazo de Raxoi was built to serve civic and religious-adjacent functions in the heart of Santiago. Its placement on Praza do Obradoiro was deliberate: it completes the monumental “stage set” of the square, balancing the Cathedral and other power-centers around it.

Architecturally, it’s a defining example of Santiago’s civil neoclassicism, with a long, horizontal façade and an elegant ground-floor arcade that creates a sheltered walkway along the square. Even if you’re not deeply into architecture, the building’s scale and clean lines make it one of the most legible “big statements” in the cityscape.

Beyond aesthetics, its significance is practical and symbolic: it remains a working seat of local government, so it represents the living, administrative side of Santiago rather than only its pilgrimage identity.

Things to See and Do in the Pazo de Raxoi

Start with the façade itself. Walk the length of the arcades to appreciate how the building’s rhythm of arches changes as you shift perspective, and look upward for sculptural details that are easy to miss from the middle of the square.

For photography, the most rewarding “do” here is to use the arcade openings as frames. From under the arches you can capture dramatic, centered views toward the Cathedral and the activity of Obradoiro, especially at sunrise or in the blue hour when the stone takes on warmer tones.

Because the building is primarily administrative, pair it with nearby stops rather than planning it as a standalone interior visit. It fits perfectly between Cathedral time, a loop through the surrounding historic lanes, and a pause in the square to watch pilgrims arrive and celebrations unfold.

How to Get to the Pazo de Raxoi

The nearest airport is Santiago–Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ); Porto (OPO) is a common alternative for more international connections, and A Coruña Airport (LCG) can also work depending on your route. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Santiago de Compostela on Booking.com.

Santiago de Compostela is well connected by rail within Spain, and the main station (Santiago de Compostela railway station) is a straightforward taxi, bus, or walk into the Old Town depending on your luggage and pace. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're traveling by car, plan to park outside the pedestrian-focused historic center and walk in, as Praza do Obradoiro itself is not a convenient drive-up destination. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Pazo de Raxoi

  • Official website: http://www.santiagodecompostela.gal
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning for softer light and fewer crowds in Obradoiro, or early evening when the square feels lively but less hectic than midday.
  • How long to spend: 10–20 minutes is enough for a good look and photos; longer if you’re waiting for the light or using it as a stop on a guided walk.
  • Accessibility: The square is largely step-free, but the Old Town’s stone paving can be uneven; approach slowly with wheels and consider a route with gentler gradients.
  • Facilities: There are no dedicated visitor facilities inside for tourists; rely on nearby cafés, public services in the center, and facilities at major attractions around the Cathedral.

Where to Stay Close to the Pazo de Raxoi

Base yourself in the Old Town (Casco Histórico) if you want to walk everywhere and step out straight into Santiago’s most iconic squares.

Parador de Santiago de Compostela (Hostal dos Reis Católicos) This is the classic “wake up on Obradoiro” choice, ideal for travelers who want history, prestige, and the shortest possible walk to the Cathedral-facing landmarks.

NH Collection Santiago de Compostela A strong pick for modern comfort and a calmer setting just outside the tightest Old Town lanes, while still being walkable to the center.

Hotel Costa Vella A charming, characterful stay with a more intimate feel, great for travelers who want a quieter night but still want to be close to the action.

Hotel Praza Quintana Perfect for being embedded in the historic core near the Cathedral complex, with an atmosphere that matches the stone-and-lantern vibe of Santiago.

Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago A reliable upscale option with easy access by taxi and a comfortable base if you prefer a slightly less congested location than the tightest Old Town streets.

Is the Pazo de Raxoi Worth Visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting because it's one of the defining façades of Santiago de Compostela and a key part of the “four-building” panorama of Praza do Obradoiro. Even a quick stop adds context to the city: it reminds you that Santiago is not only a pilgrimage destination, but also a living civic capital with a monumental administrative presence.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and only want attractions you can enter, you can skip a dedicated stop and simply appreciate it in passing while you’re already in Obradoiro for the Cathedral. It shines most for architecture lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys reading a city through its public spaces.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (249)

Reviews are very positive overall, with visitors praising the palace’s grandeur, 18th-century character, and striking façade details like arches and stonework. Many people highlight its prime location opposite the Cathedral on the main square, making it an easy, photogenic stop on an Old Town walk. A common downside is limited access inside since it functions as City Hall, and a small number of reviews mention dissatisfaction with political displays in the square rather than the building itself.

Luciano Carvalho
a year ago
"I visited the Pazo de Raxoi in Santiago de Compostela, and its grandeur was striking. This historic palace, built in the 18th century, now serves asthe City Hall. The building’s Baroque-style façade is impressive, with beautiful arches and intricate stonework. Located near the Cathedral, it adds to the city’s charm and historical richness. Though I only admired it from the outside, the Pazo de Raxoi stands as a symbol of Santiago’s political and cultural heritage. It’s an essential part of the city’s architectural landscape...."
vadim sluzky
4 months ago
"It’s a shame that council of a city takes a site by demonstrating Palestinian flag in the beautiful main square of the city across the main church"
razorrau1
11 months ago
"Pazo de Raxoi is a very nice looking City hall. We couldn't do her through it but it was a nice little stopped getting to look at this very beautifulbuilding with great architectural work..."

For Different Travelers

Pazo de Raxoi is a flexible stop: it's easy to “collect” as part of the Cathedral area, but it also rewards travelers who slow down and notice details. Think of it as a scenic anchor point you can revisit at different times of day.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the open space of Praza do Obradoiro more than the building itself, so treat the Pazo as a backdrop to a square break. It's a good spot to pause, regroup, and let children burn off energy while adults take photos.

Make it interactive by turning it into a quick “spot the details” game: arches, statues, symmetry, and the way the building frames the Cathedral views. Pair it with a nearby treat stop to keep momentum.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the Pazo de Raxoi works best at quieter hours when the square feels cinematic. Early morning is especially romantic, with fewer tour groups and a softer hush over the stone.

Use the arcade as a sheltered stroll if the weather turns, then linger for photos that capture both the palace and the Cathedral in one composition. It’s a simple, elegant moment that feels very Santiago.

Budget Travelers

This is an ideal budget-friendly highlight because the best experience is free: the architecture, the square atmosphere, and the photo opportunities cost nothing. It’s also a great “between stops” landmark while you explore the Old Town on foot.

Plan it as part of a self-guided walking route that includes nearby squares, viewpoints, and churches, keeping paid attractions to just one or two priorities. You'll still get a rich sense of place.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how the Pazo represents the civic and administrative layer of Santiago’s story, complementing the Cathedral’s religious narrative. Its 18th-century origins and prominent placement speak to the city’s evolving power structures.

To deepen the visit, compare it with the other monumental buildings around Obradoiro and note how each expresses a different “authority” in the city. Even without an interior visit, the exterior tells a lot.

FAQs for Visiting Pazo de Raxoi

Getting There

Yes, it’s directly on Praza do Obradoiro, opposite the Cathedral’s main façade. You’ll likely see it automatically during any Cathedral-area walk.
Yes, you can take a short taxi ride or a city bus, or walk if you’re traveling light. The final approach is through pedestrian-friendly Old Town streets.
Yes, it’s one of the main visual anchors of the historic center. Many guided and self-guided routes naturally pass through Obradoiro.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is needed to see and photograph the exterior from the square. Interior access is typically limited because it’s a working government building.
Usually, visits focus on the outside; interior access may be restricted or only available on special occasions. If interior visits become available, check the city’s official channels before planning around it.
Some city walking tours include it as an exterior stop with historical context. Choose a tour that focuses on architecture or Old Town history for the best explanation.

Visiting Experience

To admire one of Santiago’s most important civil façades and complete the “Obradoiro panorama.” It’s a quick, high-impact stop.
Focus on the long arcaded ground level, the symmetry, and the sculptural details above. The building also creates excellent framed views toward the Cathedral.
Obradoiro can be busy, especially in peak season and midday. Visit early or later in the day for a calmer experience.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Combine it with the Cathedral area, a loop through nearby historic lanes, and one museum or viewpoint. Treat it as a scenic connector between bigger stops.
Yes, many Camino finish-day walks end in Obradoiro, where the Pazo is part of the final square experience. It’s a natural “arrival backdrop.”
Pair it with the Cathedral exterior viewpoints and nearby monumental buildings around Obradoiro. The contrast between religious and civic architecture is the point.

Photography

The center of Praza do Obradoiro gives you the full façade, while the arches provide framing shots toward the Cathedral. Try both wide and detail shots.
Morning and early evening usually give the most flattering tones on the stone. Overcast days can also be great for reducing harsh shadows.
In busy public squares, tripods can be inconvenient and sometimes discouraged for safety and flow. A small, quick setup is best if you use one.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes around the square, but expect uneven stone paving and occasional slopes in the surrounding lanes. Moving slowly and choosing smoother routes helps.
Not dedicated to visitors inside the building. Plan to use nearby cafés or public facilities in the central area.
Yes, the arcade provides some cover for a short pause and photos. Santiago weather can change quickly, so it’s a useful feature.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the Cathedral area and nearby streets have plenty of cafés and bakeries. It’s easy to plan a coffee stop before or after the square.
Obradoiro is more of a ceremonial square than a picnic spot. For a relaxed break, head to a nearby garden or quieter plaza.
Grab something portable from the Old Town lanes and eat it away from the densest crowd zones. You’ll keep your schedule flexible.

Safety & Timing

The central area is generally lively and well-trafficked in the evenings. As with any tourist hub, keep an eye on belongings in crowds.
Arriving in the early morning is the simplest way to avoid tour groups and get cleaner photos. It also feels more atmospheric.
Yes, rain and wind can change the square experience, but the building remains impressive in moody conditions. Waterproof shoes help on slick stone.

Nearby Attractions to the Pazo de Raxoi

The Pazo de Raxoi appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Santiago de Compostela!

Moira & Andy
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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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Praza do Obradoiro, 15705 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
Santiago de Compostela: 1 km
Telephone: +34 981 54 23 00
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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