Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela – Frequently Asked Questions

In the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, according to Christian tradition, the Apostle James the Greater, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, is buried. In addition to him, the cathedral [...]

The relics of the Apostle James the Greater are kept in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, according to Christian tradition. In fact, he is not buried, but rather his remains are [...]

The Botafumeiro has been involved in several incidents throughout its history, such as: in 1499, it flew out through the As Praterías door during a ceremony in the presence of Princess Catherine [...]

In the Botafumeiro of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, incense mixed with charcoal is burned. This combination produces the fragrant smoke used to purify the air during religious ceremonies and has [...]

The Botafumeiro of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is swung by a group of eight men known as “tiraboleiros”. They are responsible for making the large censer swing across the transept [...]

The traditional embrace of the figure of the Apostle Saint James, located at the main altar of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, can be done during the cathedral's opening hours. In [...]

The best time to visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is early in the morning, when there are usually fewer tourists and you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Between 8:00 [...]

According to tradition, the remains of the apostle James along with those of his disciples Athanasius and Theodore are located in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, kept in a silver urn [...]

The construction of the current Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela was initiated by King Alfonso VI of León in 1075, under the direction of Bishop Diego Peláez. Previously, King Alfonso II had [...]

The Botafumeiro in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela can be seen in operation during solemn masses and special occasions, such as on major liturgical feast days. Some of the most notable [...]

Admission to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is free for attending masses and religious activities. However, some areas such as the Museum, the Portico of Glory, and the rooftops require a [...]

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is special for being one of the main Christian pilgrimage destinations, as it houses the relics of the Apostle James. Its impressive architecture, which blends Romanesque, [...]