Catedral de Santiago de Compostela

Catedral de Santiago de Compostela · A Coruña

Por Spain · 21 de abril de 2026

Santiago Cathedral marks the end of the pilgrims’ journey, and its grandeur is truly worthy of such an occasion. It is a key example of Romanesque architecture, though it incorporates numerous architectural styles.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1075, during the reign of Alfonso VI, and was commissioned by Bishop Diego Peláez. The work was carried out under the supervision of Master Esteban on the remains of ancient churches built in honour of the saint.

It was built with three naves and a Latin cross plan, covering an area of some 8,300 square metres. Its numerous extensions have brought together various architectural styles within the building (Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Plateresque and Neoclassical).

The Portico of Glory is its main entrance. It was built by Master Mateo in 1188 and features some two hundred figures alluding to the Apocalypse.

Within it, the figure of St James the Apostle appears to welcome pilgrims, supported by a column from the mullion. The Obradoiro façade of the cathedral is the work of Fernando de Casas y Novoa and is regarded as one of the finest examples of Spanish Baroque. The High Altar is also in the Baroque style, and beneath it lies the crypt of St James the Apostle.

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