SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA,SPAIN-NOVEMBER 10,2015:Ancient street in historic center of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain.
western facade of The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
Santiago de Compostela is the capital city of Galicia Province in North West Spain. It is famous as the finishing point for the Camino de Santiago, which attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. This vibrant and historic city is now easily accessible with direct Aer Lingus flights 5 days a week.
On a recent visit, I stayed at the spectacular Parador Hotel ( Hostal dos Reis Católicos ) directly opposite the Cathedral in the renowned Praza do Obradoiro . This stunning hotel was built in 1499 as a hospital for pilgrims and retains a rich blend of history, art and tradition. The Cathedral is said to have been built where the remains of St James, the Apostle were buried.
The Old Town area of Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage site and its narrow cobblestone streets are steeped in history. But there is more to Santiago de Compostela than just a mecca for pilgrims on the Camino. It is a bustling University Town with an outstanding offering of cafes, bars and restaurants, which create a vibrant and warm atmosphere. Seafood is in abundance due to Galicia’s Atlantic coast and estuaries and fresh prawns, scallops, octopus, spider crabs, clams, cockles and goose barnacles are among the many local varieties available. The speciality of the area is Pulpo a la Gallega or Pulpo a Feira ( Octopus Galician style ), which is a mouth watering dish of boiled octopus with parprika and olive oil, served on a wooden board with cachelos (sliced boiled potatoes in their skins ) and bread and washed down with one of the many outstanding local wines..
There is so much to see and enjoy in Santiago de Compostela, that it is the ideal destination for a weekend break.
