Santiago de Compostela, in the extreme west of Spain, in Galicia, is the final stage of the Christian pilgrimage. It is a town overflowing with churches and convents, and yet is an extremely lively town with a wide range of cultural activities.

A revival of interest in the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela has, in recent years, propelled thousands of walkers along the roads of Galicia, along the ‘Camino francés’. They all share the same aim, to reach the famous cathedral and the tomb of the apostle. The religious edifice, the main attraction in the town, is the finest example of Romanesque art in Spain. Every day, for the mass for the apostle, a gigantic censer, the Botafumeiro, is swung there by eight men. The town evidently attracts lovers of religious art, with its many other churches and monasteries, but also tourists who enjoy visiting its parks, museums, busy streets and old-town squares. From Alameda Park, one of its busiest parks, there are exceptional views over the historic centre and the cathedral. The parks of Santo Domingo de Bonaval houses two outstanding museums, the Museum of the Galician People and the Contemporary Art Centre. The town’s historic centre and granite architecture are reminders that this is an Atlantic city. It is teaming with shops of Galician handicrafts, art galleries, pubs and restaurants where you can sample regional cheeses and cold meats. You can find these culinary delights at the famous daily Abastos market.