EXPERIENCE SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA - GALICIA

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA is one of the three cities to represent the history of Spain as a confluence of three civilizations. SANTIAGO, symbolizing the Christian world: GRANADA, the symbol of Moslem culture: and TOLEDO, the Christian, Arabic and Jewish civilizations all in one.

This famous place of pilgrimage in north-west Spain became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam. Destroyed by the Muslims at the end of the 10th century, it was completely rebuilt in the following century. With its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, the Old Town of Santiago de Compostela is one of the world's most beautiful urban areas. The oldest monuments - which are in the Plaza del Obradoiro - are grouped around the tomb of St James and the cathedral, which contains the remarkable Portico de la Gloria.

Declared by UNESCO in 1985 as a World Heritage Site and in 2000 selected as the EUROPEAN CITY OF CULTURE, Santiago de Compostela also boasts a fine university over 500 years old. The capital of the Autonomous Community of Galicia, it is now undergoing a period of urban expansion and cultural enrichment, with the founding of new museums and the birth of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Galicia.

The city is the perfect place to spend a few days. It has an outstanding variety of cultural attractions that begins with the cathedral and the impressive Plaza del Obradoiro, and continues through the historical, narrow cobbled streets and neighbouring squares which are a pleasure to discover. Food lover´s will adore the many excellent restaurant´s and bars particularly along the Rua del Horreo, which is just one tempting seafood experience after another.  Be sure also to try the many delicious cheeses from this region and the excellent, locally produced Albarino white wine.

You only need to let your Totally Spain agent know and we can work in to your custom itinerary, a stay in Santiago de Compostela; including a private guided visit with an expert local guide, who will help you learn about and experience all that this incredible city has to offer, as part of your very own custom private tour in Spain and Portugal.