Secrets of Santiago de Compostela: A Self-Guided Tour
ID: GYG561320-962109
Category:
Country: Spain
Duration:
01:15 hours
Description
Decode the symbols at St James' shrine and its role in the pilgrimage tradition on this self-guided audio tour. Experience the magic of GPS-playback on this stroll through Santiago de Compostela.
Centuries of devotion and artistic brilliance converge at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which stands atop the reputed grave of St James The Great. On this walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you‘ll explore both the grandeur of the cathedral‘s interior and the breathtaking beauty of its exterior. I also hope to deepen your appreciation for this architectural marvel and the rich history and spirituality that surround it.
The tour starts at the magnificent Praza do Obradoiro, the Old Town’s main square, where I‘ll show you easy-to-miss details like the intricate blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture that adorns every corner of this architectural masterpiece. You‘ll circle the cathedral‘s surroundings and I‘ll reveal its fascinating layers of history. At the Azabachería, its northern façade, you‘ll see where pilgrims entered the cathedral complex from as far back as the 1100s. At the Berenguela Tower, you‘ll hear about its 6-tonne bell, the largest in the cathedral. From there you‘ll enter the cathedral and learn the secrets held within. I‘ll also show you where pilgrims have for centuries embraced the apostle, and hugged the statue of Saint James.
On this tour, you‘ll also have the chance to:
• See the astonishing Botafumeiro, the world‘s largest incense thurible
• Learn about the ceremonial rituals that involve the Botafumeiro, and how it symbolizes purification and spiritual cleansing for pilgrims
• Visit the Immaculate, Quintana, and Platerias Squares, and decode the symbolism and importance of this area within the cathedral complex
• Journey through the Holy Door, only open during Holy Years, and delve into the details of this extraordinary entrance
• Find out how the discovery of Saint James‘ tomb in the 800s changed the religious landscape of the Iberian Peninsula forever
• Hear about the significance and decoration of the temple‘s golden Baroque main altar
• Pay your respects at the sepulcher of Saint James, the cathedral‘s spiritual heart
• Discover the legends and history that surround this holy relic and understand its central role in the pilgrimage tradition
Whether you‘re a recently landed pilgrim or an art or history enthusiast eager to discover the cathedral‘s secrets, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Let‘s embark on this remarkable journey together.
Disclaimer: Any route changes or areas restricted for restorations that the cathedral determines unilaterally are not our (or VoiceMap’s) responsibility.
Highlights
- Uncover the wonders of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
- Hear from Gabriela Garcia Stamile, a licensed tour guide with a love of history
- Do it all in 75 minutes or linger at stops along the way
- Get unlimited use of the tour before your booking date and after it
- Use the virtual tour option at home
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• You need to install the VoiceMap smartphone app.
• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• This tour is only available in English.
The tour starts in the Obradoiro square, also known as Praza do Obradoiro. You may get there from several parts of town, although Francos Street is the main route. When you arrive, you will notice four majestic buildings encircling the square. The Cathedral is the most prominent, and is easily identified by its facade and two tall towers.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.
