Botafumeiro: when it swings
Updated:
Right now the Botafumeiro is not swinging: the Cathedral says it is temporarily out of service for restoration. When it returns, it swings on the solemnities in the official calendar and for pilgrim groups that have requested it. There is no fixed daily time: check the current schedule on the Cathedral website.
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- Cathedral notice: the Botafumeiro is temporarily out of service for restoration works. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
- From 16 October 2026 until further notice, because of works at the high altar, the 9:30, 12:00 and 19:30 Pilgrim’s Masses are held in San Agustín church; the 7:30 Mass stays in the Cathedral, in the Communion Chapel. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
Solemnities when it swings
Epiphany (6 January), Easter Sunday, Ascension, Pentecost, Martyrdom of St James (25 July), Assumption (15 August), All Saints (1 November), Christ the King, Immaculate Conception (8 December), Christmas (25 December) and Translation of St James (30 December). (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
Pilgrim groups that request it
It also swings for pilgrim groups that have requested it from the Cathedral; bookings are handled by email with the Cathedral itself. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
In 2027
A Holy Year brings more services and bigger crowds in the Cathedral. Arrive early and without your pack.
Where to stay in Santiago
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Botafumeiro swing every day?
No. It swings on calendar solemnities and when a pilgrim group requests it. It is currently stopped for restoration.
When will it swing again?
The Cathedral has not published a date. Check its liturgy page.
Does it swing on 25 July?
Yes, the Martyrdom of St James on 25 July is on the official list of solemnities.
How is it requested?
By email to the Cathedral; the address is on its liturgy page.
Schedules change: always check the current times on the official website linked.
More Santiago guides
- Getting home from Santiago de Compostela
- Luggage storage in Santiago de Compostela
- Albergue vs hotel or guesthouse on the Camino
- Camino de Santiago app
- Things to do in Santiago de Compostela
- Pilgrim’s Mass: times and venue
- Visiting Santiago Cathedral and the Portico of Glory
- Holy Door 2027 and the jubilee indulgence
- Obradoiro square
- Tarta de Santiago
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