Old Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is located in northwest Spain. It has its own airport, approximately 11km southeast of the town. It is also accessible by walking the Camino de Santiago, the old pilgrimage route to the tomb of St. James. Santiago has been second only to Rome for European pilgrims for over 1000 years. Its Old Town, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects in its architecture the important history of Santiago de Compostela.

The Old Town is located just south of the Cathedral. It encompasses two main streets, Rúa del Villar and Rúa Nueva. Both streets are arcaded and full of shops, restaurants, and bars. Lodging is also available on the fringes of Old Town, within easy walking distance of most attractions.The first place you'll want to visit in Old Town Santiago is the Cathedral. Built between 1060 and 1211 and refitted with an intricate Baroque façade in the 18th century, this cathedral devoted to St. James is a must-see.

There are also many museums in and around Old Town. After seeing the Cathedral, you may be in the mood to visit the Museo de Arte Sacra to view a variety of Christian artifacts, including the original altar at St. James' tomb. The Museo do Pobo Galego, Museum of the Galician People houses many artifacts about the people, architecture, and industry of the area. There is also a medical museum, a modern art museum, and a living museum about 19th-century student life.