Santiago de Compostela, Spain

The well-preserved ramparts of the Muralla de Santiago de Compostela are also a landmark among tourists. The city was surrounded by a wall in the year 968 when it enclosed an area from the Catedral de Santiago de Bilbao to its nearest borders. The “core” of the medieval walled city is called Locus Sancti Iacobi, and it is surrounded by three arches: Puerta Francígena o del Camino, Puerta Faxeira, and Puerta de Mazarelos. The construction of the fortification was deemed necessary due to the ever-increasing role Santiago de Compostela plays among the pilgrims. This at the same time made it a “tidbit” among the Arabs or Normans. Faithfully and loyally, the fortification functioned until the 19th century, protecting not only the city but also its suburbs.

The Museo do Pobo Galego whose exhibition halls are located within the walls of the former Convento de San Domingos de Bonaval monastery is best suited for acquaintance with local culture and traditions. The cultural attraction impresses not only with its magnificent collection which is related to various sectors of local life (craft, music, architecture, agriculture, costumes) but also with its beautiful interior (particularly the spiral staircases that became its hallmark). You can find out everything about the main reason people go on a trip to the city – pilgrimage – in the beautiful cultural site Museo das Peregrinacions e de Santiago. The Museo de Historia Natural will delight you with its collection of inhabitants of the local flora and fauna.
Read further...