¿Why is Santiago de Compostela the capital of Galicia?

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Santiago de Compostela : the capital of Galicia
Santiago de Compostela, one of Europe’s most iconic destinations and the final destination of the legendary Camino de Santiago, welcomes thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year in search of a transformative experience. Presided over by the majestic Cathedral of Santiago, the city not only holds immense spiritual significance but is also a historical and cultural treasure that has remained alive throughout the centuries.
However, Santiago is not only a religious landmark: it is also the political and administrative heart of Galicia. Although it is not the largest or most industrial city in the region, it holds the greatest symbolic and cultural significance. Here, traditions, history, and modern life coexist in a unique balance that makes it the true driving force of Galicia.
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From holy city to center of power
The history of Santiago is closely linked to the Apostle James the Greater. According to tradition, his remains arrived in Galicia in the 1st century, but it wasn’t until the 9th century that a hermit discovered his tomb in a remote Galician forest. This discovery not only marked the birth of the city but also turned it into one of the major pilgrimage centers of Christendom, on par with Rome and Jerusalem.
The cultural and festive heart of Galicia
Santiago is not only at the geographical center of Galicia, facilitating connections with other cities, but it also occupies a strategic location that makes it a true melting pot of cultures and traditions. From its privileged position, the city serves as a meeting point between the Atlantic coast and the mountains of the interior, making it a place where not only people but also influences from all parts of the region converge. Santiago is undoubtedly the core where the Galician language, music, literature, and traditions find their fullest expression, from traditional dances to the popular festivals celebrated throughout the year.
The streets of the city especially come alive in summer, during the celebrations of St. James, when the city fills with a festive atmosphere that leaves no one indifferent. Bagpipes and tambourines accompany parades, concerts, and religious processions, while pilgrims and locals mingle in a unique celebration that reflects the welcoming and hospitable spirit of Galicia.
In the Mercado de Abastos, one of the most important and oldest markets in Galicia, one can feel the essence of the land through its fresh products. From the famous “pulpo a la gallega” (Galician-style octopus) to the delicious “queso de tetilla” (tetilla cheese) and the tasty “pimientos de Padrón” (Padrón peppers), the market is a place where you can taste the most authentic flavors of Galicia and discover the region’s rich gastronomy.
The Cathedral of Santiago, imposing and welcoming, is not just a religious symbol but also a witness to centuries of history and culture. It is much more than a tourist destination: it is a meeting point, a place where thousands of stories intertwine every day. Every pilgrim who reaches its door brings a new story, a new emotion. In this way, the Cathedral becomes a unique human mosaic in Europe, a place where the sacred and the everyday come together, creating a special atmosphere that captivates both those seeking the spiritual and those wishing to experience the essence of Galicia.
The capital that unites all of Galicia
When Galicia achieved autonomy within the Spanish state in 1981, a decision had to be made as to which city would represent the entire region as its political capital. A Coruña, with its thriving economy and industrial role, and Lugo, with its impressive Roman heritage, were also strong candidates for this title. However, Santiago de Compostela was chosen. Why? Because Santiago had something that the others could not offer: it represented the historical, spiritual, and cultural unity of the entire Galician people. Its deep connection with Galician history, religion, and traditions gave it a unique symbolism that transcended population figures or economic development.
Today, Santiago houses the Parliament of Galicia, the headquarters of the Xunta de Galicia (Government of Galicia), and other key institutions that shape the direction of the region. It is not only the center of political decisions but also a space where Galician identity is preserved, promoted, and celebrated. Its role as the political and cultural capital allows the city to be a meeting point for Galicians from all provinces, uniting the four territories under one roof. Thus, Santiago not only reflects the present of the region of Galicia, but also serves as a witness and guardian of its rich cultural heritage, language, and traditions.

A city to get lost and find yourself in
Beyond the Camino, Santiago offers an old town declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow streets and squares are a veritable labyrinth inviting you to get lost, while its arcades and fountains hide secrets only revealed to those who take the time to explore them.
The youthful energy brought by the students of its historic university enlivens the bars, cafés, and cultural events that fill the city year-round. Festivals like the WOS Festival and the exhibitions at the Centro Galego de Arte Contemporánea (Galician Center for Contemporary Art) and the futuristic Cidade da Cultura (City of Culture) are proof that Santiago is not stuck in the past, but rather looks to the future with enthusiasm.
Read also: PLACES TO VISIT IN GALICIA 2025
Santiago, your ideal starting point
The Ribeira Sacra captivates with its terraced vineyards that climb the riverbanks. It’s a landscape that speaks of tradition, silence, and ancient beauty.
The Sil canyons, with their vertiginous gorges and spectacular viewpoints, offer a breathtaking visual experience. A perfect spot to lose yourself in nature and history.
The Playa de las Catedrales, sculpted by centuries of wind and sea, rises like a natural cathedral where the Atlantic reveals all its power and poetry.
And if you’re looking to disconnect in the heart of nature, the Fragas do Eume are an ideal green refuge, with trails that wind through enchanted forests.
Do you dream of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters? The Cíes Islands, that Atlantic paradise, are within reach from here. Thanks to its privileged location, Santiago is the ideal gateway to discover every corner of this magical land.
With Galicia Travels, you can discover these places comfortably, accompanied by guides who will help you live the experience to the fullest, revealing secrets and legends not covered in guidebooks.
Conclusión
Santiago de Compostela is much more than a capital: it is the soul of Galicia. Its importance is not measured in numbers, but in the profound meaning it holds for all Galicians and for those who visit it. Here, tradition and modernity coexist, and every street invites you to discover a new story.
As the political, cultural, and spiritual capital, Santiago represents the essence of a diverse and deeply human land. And the best part is that it is much more than a place to visit: it is a starting point to a world full of surprises, where every landscape seems taken from a fairy tale.
If you want to experience Galicia from its authentic heart, Santiago is the ideal place to start. At Galicia Travels, we invite you to discover this city and much more. Write to us, visit our website, or come and meet us. We await you with open arms!