Although Santiago de Compostela is best known throughout the world (and has been for centuries) for being the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, this cosmopolitan city has much more to offer. It has been a World Heritage Site for a reason since 1985. From its cathedral to its bars and restaurants, passing through its beautiful Mercado de Abastos, the Alameda with its camellia trees or the inclined columns of the Colexiata de Santa María. However, there is about 150 rainy days a year so we should always visit it with a few plans B up our sleeves.
Discover the Monastery of San Martín Pinario
In the Plaza de la Inmaculada stands this monastery, founded by a group of Benedictines and which would end up raising the wealth that would allow them to pay for the imposing works of the church, which constitutes, together with the Cathedral, the most valuable collection of the Galician baroque. In addition, the choir stalls are recognized as the most important of those made in Galicia and one of the main ones on the peninsula.
The monastery, on the other hand, is great simplicity and sober lines which are only interrupted by the façade, which is accessed by a large staircase. In turn, the five-section tower contributes to breaking the monotony of the façade. Inside are the office cloister, the most primitive, and the processional cloister.
Visit to the Museum of the Galician People
The museum is located in the building of the old convent of Santo Domingo de Bonaval (dating from the 17th-18th centuries). However, it is currently a museum of an anthropological nature, although it also houses rooms of painting, sculpture and sacred art. The main collections are dedicated to popular culture, with valuable references to the maritime and agricultural world. Other sections included are habitat, architecture, trades and printing, along with spaces dedicated to society. It also has an excellent collection of traditional clothing and lace, as well as musical instruments. In addition, the entrance is only 4 euros.
Galician empanada tasting
The empanada is a gastronomic reference in Galicia. A seemingly simple snack but with a complex elaborationof which there are as many varieties as there are places to eat it. However, none like the historic center of Santiago de Compostela, which is ideal for trying the diversity of this typical dish. Of course, they all have in common the quality of the product and daily baking. Don’t miss the one they serve on La radio, Solleiros or Abastos 2.0.
Thermal bath
Although Galicia is synonymous in the collective imagination with greenery and seafood, it is also It is one of the main thermal destinations in Europe. Thus, among the natural resources of Santiago de Compostela are the hot springs. The enjoyment of these therapeutic waters dates back to the time of the Romans although, to this day, we cannot think of any better way to avoid a rainy day than to immerse yourself in one of these hot springs. The offer is very wide and suitable for all budgets, and it is that you can enjoy from free public hot springs to booking in 5-star spas.
Cover photo | Unsplash