Beyond the main tourist attractions, Santiago offers a number of fascinating and hidden gems that will provide a genuine and memorable experience. Discover these lesser known locations of Santiago. These are a few of the hidden treasures that will bring you a comprehensive understanding of the past and present of this city.
When it comes to outstanding results, we may start with the College of Fonseca, which can be considered the University of Santiago de Compostela’s birthplace. It was founded in the 16th century in order to teach Arts, Theology, Civil Law and Canon Law. Built in the Renaissance style, its interior houses the Graduate Hall or one of the most exquisite Compostelian cloisters, which provides access to the priceless Library. To the right of the façade is located the sculpture of the “Tree of Science” which holds an intriguing tradition. With no doubt, is one of the interesting less-known places to visit in Santiago de Compostela.
Hostel of the Catholic Monarchs
It was built in the 16th century by order of the Catholic Monarchs to accommodate and treat the sick pilgrims wandering the city streets. Its style is halfway between late Gothic and Renaissance. It stands out because of its façade and, above all, the ornamented upper cornice. Indoors, we can find the chapel, in Gothic-Renaissance style, surrounded by four beautiful cloisters. In 1954 it became part of the National Network of Paradores. Today, modern pilgrims continue enjoying a curious privilege. Follow the previous link to find out which one. This Parador offers self-guided visits to the chapel and cloisters.
Monastery and Church of San Martín Pinario
The monastery was founded in the 10th century to house the monks responsible of guarding the Apostle’s relics. Visitable art collections surround its interior cloisters from the 17th and 18th centuries, and some of its rooms are also used as exhibition spaces. The visit to the church and the Diocesan Museum allows you to admire some of the best retables of the Spanish Baroque, or the old wooden choir of the Cathedral. The Baroque facade of the church and the curved and descending staircase from the 18th century are the church’s most notable features.
Costa Vella Café
We’ll make another stop on our journey to discover a Santiago’s new hidden treasure. In this lovely urban garden located in the Hotel Costa Vella we may be able to recharge our batteries with positive energy. Here you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy the beauty of its trees and flowers, the sounds of birds and water… Breathe deeply and spend some time in this bucolic place that transports you to a distant realm. However, this garden is close to everything in Santiago. We recommend enjoying a delicious cup of coffee and some cake, surrounded by the garden’s understated beauty.
Church of San Fiz de Solovio
This church is one of the lesser-known locations in Santiago. It is said to have been Santiago de Compostela’s earliest church. The anchorite Paio may have lived here in the ninth century. He made the decision to retire and spend his time in solitude and reflection in the beautiful and desolated Galician countryside. According to legend, he saw lights one night while praying, approached them, and discovered the Apostle’s remains. Its medieval poetic makes it worth to visit. In close proximity, there is a statue of Alphonse II, the earliest pilgrim ever documented, and a traditional cross-pilar protecting the adjacent areas.
Gate of the Wine or Mazarelos
It is the only arch from the medieval wall encircling Santiago’s town that has survived. This eleventh-century stronghold, which had seven main gates to regulate entrance for both people and commodities, was destroyed in the nineteenth century. Castilian wheat, Ribeiro wine, and pilgrims from the south of the peninsula used to enter through the Mazarelos arch. Since it is currently close to the University, this location is great for experiencing typical and affordable taverns.
Santiago de Compostela is a city full of history in which, in addition to the must-see locations, you may discover lesser known but equally fascinating places. Here we have suggested a few hidden gems that will enhance and complete your visit to this lovely city. You can also get more recommendations from our website by clicking on this and link
