Santiago de Compostela is a centuries-old city with a long cultural and heritage history behind it. If you are visiting for the first time, you may not be sure what to see. That’s why we have prepared a selection of museums and cultural centers that will allow you to understand the capital beyond its spiritual value.

Museo do Pobo Galego

First on the list is the Museo do Pobo Galego, located in the former convent of San Domingos de Bonaval. It offers a rigorous interpretation of Galician culture: traditional crafts, popular architecture, music, clothing, and ways of life. Two of its main attractions are the spiral staircase attributed to Domingo de Andrade and the Pantheon of Illustrious Galicians, where you can connect memory, territory, and key figures in the history of Galicia.

 

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Museum of Pilgrimages and Santiago

The Museum of Pilgrimages and Santiago is the perfect place to understand why Compostela is a universal destination. You can follow the evolution of the phenomenon of pilgrimages and their impact on the city. It is useful whether it is your first visit or you already know the Cathedral and are looking for historical context.

Santiago Cathedral Museum

The Santiago Cathedral Museum allows you to go beyond the temple itself. You will see liturgical treasures, tapestries, codices, and works that trace the artistic and devotional history of the cathedral complex. If you are interested in going up to the decks or the roof, you should check visiting hours and conditions in advance.

 

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Galician Center for Contemporary Art (CGAC)

The CGAC building alone is worth a visit. Designed by architect Álvaro Siza, it houses temporary exhibitions and permanent collections that connect Galicia with international creativity since the mid-20th century. If you are drawn to the contrast between historical heritage and contemporary languages, here you will find it clearly displayed. You can combine your visit with the Museo do Pobo Galego on the same day, as they are right next to each other.

Gaiás Center Museum

On Gaiás Hill, the Gaiás Center Museum hosts large-scale temporary exhibitions that combine art, heritage, design, and thought. The architecture of the complex and the panoramic views add extra value to the experience. From our hostel in Monte do Gozo, you can easily reach it by car.

 

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Eugenio Granell Foundation

Located in the Pazo de Bendaña, in the Plaza do Toural, the Eugenio Granell Foundation houses one of the most unique surrealist collections on the Iberian Peninsula. If you are interested in 20th-century art and want to venture off the beaten track, you will find this visit very revealing. What’s more, the building is an old Baroque noble house, which adds to the historical interest of the site.

Galicia Auditorium

Although its focus is on music and theater, the Galicia Auditorium has exhibition halls with regular programming of visual arts and photography. If you are going to be in Santiago for several days, we recommend checking its schedule and taking the opportunity to enjoy a concert.

Exploring these museums will give you a fascinating and unique insight into Compostela. Its medieval origins, Baroque splendor, modern university life… If you like, at Albergue Monte do Gozo we can help you plan a personalized itinerary with timings, access points, and recommendations based on what interests you most.