Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia, and the final destination for hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year walking one of the various caminos. Legend has it that the remains of the apostle St. James (Santiago, the patron saint of Spain) were brought here and are now preserved in the Cathedral.

The Pilgrims' Office (Oficina del Peregrino) is in Rúa das Carretas, just a stone's throw from the cathedral. You can collect your compostela here – but make sure to allow yourself ample time to do so.

If you are walking on to Fisterra or Muxía, follow the Rúa das Hortas from Praza Obradoiro.

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What to see in Santiago de Compostela

Catedral de Santiago

Catedral de Santiago

According to tradition, the cathedral was built on the exact place where the tomb of the apostle St. James had been found. Pilgrims arriving in Santiago de Compostela are welcome to join the pilgrims' mass, give the bust of Santiago a hug, and visit the saint's tomb.