General information

Santiago de Compostela is a beautiful city situated in North West Spain in the province of A Coruña, with over 90,000 inhabitants. It is considered to be the treasure of Galicia, due to its historic and religious importance and its mass of monuments and cultural sights. The Atlantic climate means that the summers aren’t sweltering and winters are mild yet wet. It is considered a vibrant religious and cultural spot of Spain.

History

Santiago de Compostela literally means St James in the field of Stars, following a belief that St James remains are rested there. St James was one of Jesus’ apostles who came to the North West corner of Spain (known to the Romans as Finnis Terrae – the end of the Earth) to convert people to Christianity. Without much success, he went back to the Holy Land where his fate was met by King Herod. Legend has it that he was the first apostle to be martyred. His remains were secretly taken to Spain where he was buried. It is said that his tomb wasn’t discovered until the 9th century when a hermit saw a shining. He informed the Bishop who declared that the remains of St James had been discovered. From this point on, the town of Santiago de Compostela started growing. After the shining, a church was built over the supposed burial site, and eventually the Cathedral.

What are you looking for in santiago?

• Monuments of Santiago de Compostela
• Restaurants in Santiago de Compostela
• Hotels in Santiago de Compostela
• Casas Rurales in Santiago de Compostela