Museo de la Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, Religious museum at Santiago Cathedral, Galicia, Spain
The Cathedral Museum sits in the western section of the cloister and displays sculptures, paintings, tapestries, and archaeological pieces from various periods. The rooms also contain precious metalwork, books, and other items gathered by the cathedral over the centuries.
The museum's collections trace back to the cathedral's origins in the 12th century, though the museum itself was formally established in the 1930s. During this period, many early manuscripts and artworks were gathered to document the long history of this important pilgrimage site.
The museum displays religious garments and decorative works that show how worship evolved in this cathedral over many generations. These pieces reveal the daily spiritual practices that shaped the community.
The museum is easily reached from Plaza del Obradoiro and can be explored alongside the cathedral itself. Plan about two hours to view the displays at a comfortable pace and walk through the various cloister rooms.
The museum houses ancient manuscripts including the Calixtinus Codex, a medieval guide for pilgrims that describes routes to the cathedral. This rare book offers insights into how travelers reached Santiago centuries ago.
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