Sunday 23 March 2014

Galicia's Santiago de Compostela


Santiago de Compostela is tucked away in the most north-westerly part of mainland Spain and is considered the centre of the area of Galicia, and was declared a World Heritage Site back in 1985.   This fascinating city has [to list just a few]:
  • 1 cathedral
  • 12 convents and monasteries
  • 18 monumental fountains
  • 19 stately houses and city palaces
  • 25 modernist buildings
  • 27 historic churches
  • 110 stone gargoyles
  • 9 baroque squares
  • 15 cloisters

You may be surprised to learn that this historical city is surrounded by green fields and hills and has 2 rivers - namely the Sarela and Sar.    Within the city, you will find a range of historical gardens and city gardens, many of which have viewpoints from which you can look over the city. 
 
You will never bore of eating out in this city as the many restaurants offer fresh seafood and garden produce, together with meat dishes, wine and cheese. 
 
Probably, Santiago de Compostela is best known for the Way of St James.  According to legend, the apostle St James was responsible for bringing Christianity to Spain.  After his death, it is said that his body was had been brought to Galicia on a ship led by angels.  In 814 a hermit claimed to have been guided by a shower of stars [compostela means "field of stars"] to rediscover the tomb of St James and the tomb has become a centre of pilgrimage with millions of people having travelled to the monumental cathedral via the Way of St James. 

But don't worry - you don't have to walk the Way of St James in order to get to the historic city of Santiago de Compostela.  Your first steps are to give us a call, or visit our website in order for us to book your flight and hotel.

Author : Gail Hewitt - Corona Holidays

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