What to see in the Cathedral of Santiago

Guide to visiting the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, with information on hours, access, masses, and must-see areas. The article explains what to see inside, how to organize your visit, and practical tips to make the most of this symbol of the Camino de Santiago.

The Catedral de Santiago de Compostela is one of the most emblematic destinations in Spain, not only for its religious significance but also for its historical and architectural richness. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from the Camino de Santiago and tourists come to the city to admire its majestic structure and discover its many corners filled with history. But it is not only possible to see the temple; you can also discover all the museum spaces and points of interest it houses. In this article, we propose visiting the Cathedral of Santiago in a complete way, a unique experience that will allow you to explore its main treasures, both by day and, ¡at night!

The Cathedral of Santiago, the goal of every pilgrim and the center of Christianity in the Holy Year

Visiting the Cathedral of Santiago

The Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is one of the most outstanding examples of European Romanesque art, although it features important Baroque elements that can be appreciated in its various expansions and renovations. It is a Cathedral, as the seat of the bishop, and it is a Basilica, for according to tradition, it houses the relics of the Apostle Santiago.

The main façade, with its imposing Baroque style, is the hyper-photographed backdrop of many photographs of pilgrims who arrive at it through the Jacobean routes. Oriented to the west, towards the Plaza del Obradoiro (hence its name), its main doors are always closed and only open for very special events.

The arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago is indescribable

The basilica, with free and open access every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, is usually entered through the Platerías façade, facing south. Access with backpacks is not allowed for security reasons (unless they are small), and therefore there are businesses with lockers outside.

In addition to admiring the interior of the Cathedral, one can visit the tomb of Santiago, give the embrace to the Apostle, and explore its numerous chapels. Somewhat unnoticed, but very important, is also the Holy Door of the Cathedral, located in the central part of the apse, behind the High Altar. This, as you may know, only opens to the outside during the Holy Year, but it can be seen from the inside without any problem.

Masses at the Cathedral of Santiago: the Pilgrim's Mass

Eucharists are celebrated daily at different times, and if you want to see the Botafumeiro, you must attend one of them at the High Altar (although it does not always swing at every mass):

• 7:30 AM, at the High Altar. Pilgrim's Mass.
• 9:30 AM, at the High Altar. Pilgrim's Mass.
• 11:00 AM, at the Parish of Corticela.
• 12:00 PM, at the High Altar. Pilgrim's Mass.
• 7:30 PM, at the High Altar. Pilgrim's Mass.

In general, there are usually many queues, especially for the masses at 12:00 PM and 7:30 PM. If you wish to attend a Pilgrim's Mass in Santiago, we recommend entering the Cathedral in advance to avoid queues and secure a good spot.

The exit from the basilica is usually through the Cathedral shop; however, after the masses, it is often through the north façade, the Azabachería façade.

Watching the Botafumeiro fly is one of the great attractions of the Cathedral of Santiago

Visit the Cathedral Museum

The Cathedral Museum of Santiago is one of the most complete and interesting museums in Santiago de Compostela. This museum houses an impressive collection of sacred art, liturgical objects, and relics that belong to the history of the Cathedral. It is located in the cloister of the Cathedral, a place that is worthy of admiration for its tranquility and beauty.

It has two access points and ticket sales counters. One, from inside the Cathedral, which provides access to the Treasury, and another, from the Plaza del Obradoiro. It opens every day of the year (except for some holidays) from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM., and there are different types of visits that you can learn about and book from the Cathedral of Santiago website.

The Cathedral Museum of Santiago

Among the highlights of its content, it is worth mentioning:

• Permanent Collection: The permanent collection of the museum includes a variety of works ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary times. Among the most notable pieces are medieval sculptures, paintings, and a selection of goldsmithing.
• Cloister: The cloister of the Cathedral is a space of great beauty. Here you will also find the Sacred Space, where temporary exhibitions related to the religious and cultural history of Santiago are presented. In it, you can admire the 18th-century bells and the Fons Mirabilis fountain, which used to be outside the Cathedral, at the French door, now the Azabachería façade.
• Treasury and Chapel of Relics: The Treasury of the Cathedral displays some of the most valuable pieces that have been part of the liturgy of the Cathedral, including chalices, reliquaries, and liturgical vestments dating back to centuries past. Notably, the relics of another Santiago, Santiago Alfeo or "the Lesser".

Palace of Xelmírez

The Palace of Xelmírez, built between 1120 and 1136 by Archbishop Diego Gelmírez, is one of the most prominent examples of civil Romanesque architecture in Spain. Located on the north side of the Cathedral of Santiago, the palace reflects the power and importance of the medieval church.

Its austere Romanesque façade contrasts with the richness of its interiors, which include the Hall of Arms, the Hall of Ceremonies with its impressive ribbed vault, and a series of medieval sculptures. Today, the Palace of Xelmírez is part of the visit to the Museum of the Cathedral of Santiago, where temporary exhibitions related to the history and art of the Cathedral can be seen.

The Cathedral of Santiago is a museum space with much to discover

Visit the Portico of Glory

The Portico of Glory is one of the main artistic wonders of the Cathedral of Santiago. This impressive work, created by the sculptor Master Mateo in the 12th century, represents one of the peaks of European Romanesque art. Through its sculptures, the Portico narrates scenes from the Last Judgment, with figures of apostles, prophets, and angels flanking the main door.

Originally, the Pórtico de la Gloriawas the main entrance of the Cathedral, facing the Plaza del Obradoiro. Over the centuries and with the construction of the current Baroque façade, it became protected within the basilica. Today, following the recent restoration, the Pórtico is preserved with its sculptures and restored polychromy.

It is accessible to visitors, although with prior reservation for entry (before its restoration, it was open for free visits). Access and ticket purchases are made from the Palacio de Xelmírez, although you can also do it from the website of the Cathedral of Santiago. The guided tour of this space, or the audioguide visit, is a unique opportunity to understand the symbolism of each figure and learn about the importance of this "Bible in stone" as a means of religious teaching for medieval believers.

The sculptures of the Pórtico de la Gloria have very natural and human expressions

Visit the Roofs and Tower of the Carraca

One of the most surprising places for visitors is the access to the Roofs. The ascent is a fascinating experience that allows you to see closely the architectural details of the Cathedral and the restoration work being done to keep it in perfect condition.

The Tower of the Carraca, of medieval origin, is one of the most representative elements of the skyline of Santiago. Upon reaching the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view that encompasses both the city and the surrounding rural areas, a perspective that few get to experience.

If you wish to visit these unique spaces, you can reserve from the website of the Cathedral of Santiago.

Aerial view of the Cathedral of Santiago and the square of A Quintana

Nocturnal Visit to the Cathedral of Santiago

The night visit to the Cathedral of Santiago is one of the most magical experiences you can have in the city. As night falls, the Cathedral takes on a mysterious and solemn atmosphere, ideal for enjoying its secrets under a dim light that highlights its architectural details. During this visit, the guides explain the history of the Cathedral from a different perspective, emphasizing its most enigmatic and lesser-known aspects.

Moreover, the night visits include the possibility of accessing some corners of the Cathedral that are not open during the day, such as the main altar and even the Pórtico de la Gloria, allowing you to admire the magnificence of the Cathedral in a tranquil atmosphere without the usual crowds. Night visits are available every day except Mondays, at 22:30, 22:45, and 23:00. Get your ticket on the Cathedral of Santiago website.

The Cathedral of Santiago is a place that truly leaves a mark. Not only for its size and beauty but also for the history and stories it holds. Every corner of the Cathedral and its museum spaces has something special, and it is undoubtedly a place you must visit if you are in Santiago, whether for its beauty, its history, or for the connection you can feel with all those who have passed through there over the centuries. Dare to experience this artistic gem in situ, a perfect finishing touch to your journey if, in addition, you do so after walking the Camino de Santiago.