Centuries of devotion and artistic brilliance converge at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which stands atop the reputed grave of St James The Great. On this walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you‘ll explore both the grandeur of the cathedral‘s interior and the breathtaking beauty of its exterior. I also hope to deepen your appreciation for this architectural marvel and the rich history and spirituality that surround it. The tour starts at the magnificent Praza do Obradoiro, the Old Town’s main square, where I‘ll show you easy-to-miss details like the intricate blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture that adorns every corner of this architectural masterpiece. You‘ll circle the cathedral‘s surroundings and I‘ll reveal its fascinating layers of history. At the Azabachería, its northern façade, you‘ll see where pilgrims entered the cathedral complex from as far back as the 1100s. At the Berenguela Tower, you‘ll hear about its 6-tonne bell, the largest in the cathedral. From there you‘ll enter the cathedral and learn the secrets held within. I‘ll also show you where pilgrims have for centuries embraced the apostle, and hugged the statue of Saint James. On this tour, you‘ll also have the chance to: • See the astonishing Botafumeiro, the world‘s largest incense thurible • Learn about the ceremonial rituals that involve the Botafumeiro, and how it symbolizes purification and spiritual cleansing for pilgrims • Visit the Immaculate, Quintana, and Platerias Squares, and decode the symbolism and importance of this area within the cathedral complex • Journey through the Holy Door, only open during Holy Years, and delve into the details of this extraordinary entrance • Find out how the discovery of Saint James‘ tomb in the 800s changed the religious landscape of the Iberian Peninsula forever • Hear about the significance and decoration of the temple‘s golden Baroque main altar • Pay your respects at the sepulcher of Saint James, the cathedral‘s spiritual heart • Discover the legends and history that surround this holy relic and understand its central role in the pilgrimage tradition Whether you‘re a recently landed pilgrim or an art or history enthusiast eager to discover the cathedral‘s secrets, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Let‘s embark on this remarkable journey together. Disclaimer: Any route changes or areas restricted for restorations that the cathedral determines unilaterally are not our (or VoiceMap’s) responsibility.