Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St. James the Apostle

The granite cathedral features a Latin cross floor plan with three naves, extending across 100 meters in length and 70 meters in width.

Construction of the cathedral started in 1075 under Alfonso VI, with Bishop Diego Peláez directing the project over the site of earlier churches.

The Portico of Glory contains 200 biblical figures carved in stone, representing scenes from the Apocalypse and Saint James greeting arriving pilgrims.

The cathedral remains open daily for religious services, pilgrim visits, and confessions, with wheelchair access available through designated entrances.

The Botafumeiro, a large metal incense burner, swings across the transept during specific ceremonies, reaching heights near the cathedral ceiling.

Location: Santiago de Compostela

Inception: 9 century

Architects: Fernando de Casas Novoa

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture, baroque architecture

Capacity: 1200

Length: 100 m

Width: 70 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Made from material: dimension stone

Part of: Way of Saint James in the province of A Coruña

Website: http://catedraldesantiago.es

GPS coordinates: 42.88056,-8.54444

Latest update: May 27, 2025 20:47