Santiago De Compostela

One of the most beautiful of all Spanish cities, Santiago de Compostela has been a travellers’ destination for so long that it boasts the oldest hotel in the world – the Hostal dos Reis Católicos; the first guidebook in history – the early 12th-century Codex Calixtinus; and has been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a European city of culture for the year 2000.

Attractions

The city is the third holiest site in Christendom, after Jerusalem and Rome, and is probably best known as the final destination of the legendary medieval way of pilgrimship 'Camino de Santiago' (Way of Saint James). Today the city attracts visitors from all over the world thanks to its fantastic monuments, the main attraction being The Shrine of the Apostle James and the ancient cathedral dating back to 1075, where thousands of visitors still finish the pilgrims route today.

There are winding medieval streets in the old quarter, built from local granite, that are attractive and atmospheric to explore on foot. There are a host of Plazas, monasteries and palaces to take in including: The Hospital Real built in 1492 to shelter pilgrims; The Rajoy Palace opposite the cathedral; The Colegio de San Jerónimo and Colegio de Fonseca, both originally 15th century monasteries and Gelmirez Palace with its groined arches and sculpture works.

Shopping

There are many shopping opportunities in Santiago. Plaza de la Platerias has many shops selling silver articles under its arcades, and jewellery made from Jet is one of the best crafts here with the shops crammed with pieces crafted into shells and crosses and adorned with silver or gold. Santiago is also famous for its many handmade walking sticks - a symbol of the pilgrim, and shells – an emblem of the city.

Nightlife and Eating Out

The city is famed for its fine cuisine, utilising the well-known quality and variety of Galicia's fish and world-famous shellfish; exquisite meat dishes, using traditional recipes; speciality desserts and excellent local wine.

Santiago de Compostela’s famous university attracts a large number of students, which guarantees the city a youthful ambience so there is always a lively buzz of activity to the city’s bars, cafés and restaurants.

Tourist Information

Lugar Santiago de CompostelaRúa do Vilar, 63 15905 Santiago de Compostela (La Coruña)Tel. +34 (0)981 555 129 Fax. +34 (0)981 554 748www.turgalicia.es

Airport

Santiago de Compostela Airport is located about 12km from the city.