Praza da Quintana de Mortos, Santiago de Compostela

Attraction, Historic Site and Square in Santiago de Compostela

Praza da Quintana de Mortos
Praza da Quintana de Mortos
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Laszlo Daroczy

Tucked against the south side of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, Praza da Quintana de Mortos is the lower level of the city's famous Quintana square, a broad stone plaza that feels both monumental and intimate at the same time. It's one of those places where you can pause mid-walk, look up at the cathedral's walls and towers, and immediately understand why Santiago has drawn pilgrims and travelers for centuries.

Most visitors experience it naturally on a walking tour of the Old Town, since it sits just steps from other headline sights like Praza das Praterías and the cathedral's entrances. For the best views, stand near the center of the lower plaza and look back toward the cathedral façade and the grand staircase that divides the “Mortos” (below) from the “Vivos” (above).

History and Significance of the Praza da Quintana de Mortos

Praza da Quintana is historically split into two terraces: the upper Quintana de Vivos and the lower Quintana de Mortos. The “Mortos” name is not poetic exaggeration: this lower level was once associated with burials, and the area functioned as a cemetery before it was reshaped into the public square you see today.

Over time, the space evolved from a practical, crowded medieval zone into a ceremonial urban stage framed by major religious and civic buildings. That layered history is part of what makes the plaza so compelling: you’re standing in a place that has shifted from sacred ground to public gathering space, with the cathedral always dominating the scene.

Today, the square’s significance is inseparable from Santiago’s identity as the end point of the Camino de Santiago. Even if you’re not walking the Camino, you’ll feel the pilgrim energy here, especially in the late afternoon and evening when the stone seems to glow and the plaza becomes a natural meeting point.

Things to See and Do in the Praza da Quintana de Mortos

Start by simply taking in the architecture that encloses the square: the cathedral’s imposing stonework on one side and historic buildings and monastery walls on the others. The plaza’s two-level design is part of the experience, so walk the staircase and look back down to appreciate the geometry and scale.

This is also a prime place for slow travel. Sit for a few minutes, listen to street musicians when they appear, and watch the steady flow of visitors moving between the cathedral and the surrounding lanes of the Old Town. If you’re visiting during a Holy Year or major festival periods, the plaza can feel like an outdoor foyer for the cathedral.

For photographers, the best “do” is to return twice: once in the morning for cleaner light and fewer people, and again at dusk for atmosphere. Night lighting can be especially striking, with the cathedral and surrounding stone surfaces creating a dramatic, high-contrast scene.

How to Get to the Praza da Quintana de Mortos

The nearest airport is Santiago–Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ), with Porto (OPO) and A Coruña (LCG) as useful alternatives depending on your route and flight prices. 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 Galicia and to major Spanish cities, and from the station you can reach the Old Town by taxi, bus, or a brisk walk depending on luggage and weather.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re traveling by car, aim for a public car park outside the tightest historic streets and finish on foot, since the Old Town has restricted access and narrow lanes.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.

Once you’re in the historic center, the plaza is easiest to reach on foot: follow signs for the cathedral, then circle to the south side where the Quintana terraces open up.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Praza da Quintana de Mortos

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning for calm and photos, or around sunset for the most atmospheric light on the cathedral stone.
  • How long to spend: Plan 15–30 minutes if you’re passing through, or up to an hour if you want to linger, people-watch, and photograph both levels.
  • Accessibility: The square itself is flat stone paving, but the split-level layout means steps between terraces; wheelchair users may need to approach via surrounding streets to avoid stairs.
  • Facilities: There are plenty of cafés and services in the surrounding Old Town streets, but the plaza itself is primarily an open public space.

Where to Stay Close to the Praza da Quintana de Mortos

Base yourself in the Old Town (Centro Histórico) to be able to walk to the cathedral and the Quintana in minutes, especially early and late in the day when the atmosphere is best.

Parador de Santiago de Compostela (Hostal dos Reis Católicos) Chosen for its once-in-a-lifetime location beside the cathedral and its historic character that matches the spirit of Santiago.

NH Collection Santiago de Compostela Included for travelers who want a polished, modern stay with easy access to the center while keeping a bit of breathing room from the busiest lanes.

Hotel Costa Vella A great pick for charm-seekers who want a quieter, boutique feel and a pleasant walk into the cathedral area.

Hotel Virxe da Cerca Selected for its character and convenient position between the Old Town and transport links, making it practical for short stays.

Hotel Gelmírez Ideal if you want to be near the train station for arrivals/departures while still being within walking distance of the historic center.

Is the Praza da Quintana de Mortos Worth Visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting, even if you're only in Santiago for a day. Praza da Quintana de Mortos gives you a powerful cathedral-side perspective, a sense of the city's layered history, and one of the most memorable “pause points” in the Old Town.

Honest Pivot: if you dislike crowds, open stone plazas, or you’re trying to prioritize ticketed interiors (museums, rooftops, guided cathedral spaces) with limited time, you can treat this as a quick pass-through rather than a dedicated stop. It shines most when you slow down, and not every itinerary has room for that.

For Different Travelers

Different travelers experience the Quintana in different ways, but it’s one of the easiest places in Santiago to connect the dots between architecture, pilgrimage culture, and everyday city life. Use it as a scenic waypoint rather than a checklist item.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the sheer scale of the plaza and the “two-level” layout, which makes it feel like a natural stage. It’s also a good place to reset between tighter Old Town streets.

That said, keep an eye on little ones on the steps and edges, especially when it’s wet. If your family is sensitive to crowds, aim for morning visits when the space feels calmer.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the plaza is at its best at dusk and after dark, when the lighting turns the cathedral walls into a dramatic backdrop. It’s a classic spot for a slow stroll that feels distinctly Santiago.

Pair it with a relaxed evening in the surrounding lanes for wine and tapas, then loop back through the square for a final look. The atmosphere is more romantic than “busy sightseeing,” especially outside peak hours.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers will appreciate that this is a high-impact sight that costs nothing and fits naturally into a walking route. It's also a great place to take photos that feel iconic without paying for a viewpoint ticket.

If you’re traveling light, it works well as a meet-up point for free walking tours and for regrouping with friends. Just remember that nearby cafés in the most central lanes can be pricier than spots a few streets away.

FAQs for Visiting Praza da Quintana de Mortos

Getting There

Yes, it’s walkable, but the route includes hills and cobbled streets. If you have luggage or bad weather, a short taxi ride is the easiest option.
You can take a city bus toward the central area, then walk into the Old Town. The final approach is typically on foot due to narrow streets and access restrictions.
Yes, follow signs to the cathedral and then circle around its south side. The open space of the Quintana terraces is hard to miss.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public square and you can enter freely. You only need tickets for certain cathedral-related visits and museums.
The square itself is free, but it’s often included in paid walking tours of the Old Town. If you want deeper context, a tour can be worth it.
Not in the plaza itself. Viewpoints and towers are typically accessed through separate cathedral or city attractions.

Visiting Experience

“Mortos” refers to the lower terrace historically associated with burials, while “Vivos” is the upper terrace. Walking between them helps you appreciate the square’s scale and layout.
It can be busy in peak season and around midday. Early mornings and evenings are usually more comfortable.
Yes, the lighting can be beautiful and the mood is more atmospheric. Just be mindful of slippery stone after rain.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it fits perfectly into an Old Town walking tour and the history is easier to appreciate with context. It’s also easy to revisit on your own afterward.
Use it as a connector between cathedral entrances and nearby plazas. It pairs naturally with a loop through Praza das Praterías and Praza do Obradoiro.
Absolutely, since it’s part of the cathedral’s immediate surroundings and a classic gathering area. It’s a meaningful place to pause after reaching Santiago.

Photography

Try the center of the lower terrace looking toward the cathedral and staircase, then shoot from the upper terrace looking down. Side angles near the edges can also frame the architecture nicely.
Morning offers cleaner light and fewer people, while sunset and night offer the most dramatic atmosphere. Cloudy days can also work well for soft, even light.
In a public square it’s often possible, but be considerate and avoid blocking foot traffic. If the area is crowded, handheld shooting is usually more practical.

Accessibility & Facilities

The most direct connection is via steps, but you can often reach each level by approaching from surrounding streets. Routes can be uneven, so plan a little extra time.
Not typically in the plaza itself. Use nearby cafés or public facilities in the central area.
Shade is limited in the open plaza. Bring sun protection in warm months and a rain layer year-round, as weather can change quickly.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the surrounding Old Town streets are packed with cafés, bakeries, and restaurants. For better value, walk a few minutes away from the most central lanes.
Very easy, especially around the cathedral area. Expect peak-time lines in high season.
You can sit and snack discreetly, but it’s not a park-like picnic spot. Keep it tidy and respectful given the religious setting nearby.

Safety & Timing

Generally yes, as it’s central and well visited. As anywhere, keep an eye on belongings in crowds.
Yes, the stone can get slick and photos can be trickier. On rainy days, take extra care on steps and wear shoes with good grip.
Early morning is usually the calmest. Late evening can also be quieter, depending on season and events.

Nearby Attractions to the Praza da Quintana de Mortos

The Praza da Quintana de Mortos 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 da Quintana de Mortos, Santiago de Compostela, 15704 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
Santiago de Compostela: 0 km

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