Visiting Santiago Cathedral and the Portico of Glory

Updated: October 24, 2026

Entry to the Cathedral and the Apostle’s tomb is free, through the Platerías door and without a backpack. The Portico of Glory, by Master Mateo, is visited in small groups with a ticket from the official website, like the rooftops, the Museum and the Pazo de Xelmírez.

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Free entry

Entry to the church and the Apostle’s tomb is free, through the Platerías door; backpacks are not allowed and access is limited during services. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)

The Portico of Glory

It was directed by Master Mateo; the lintel inscription dates the placing of the lintels to 1 April 1188. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
It was restored between 2008 and 2018. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
It is visited in small groups: numbers are limited for conservation. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)

Other visits

Rooftops and Carraca tower, Museum and cloister, Pazo de Xelmírez, Santa María de Sar and archive visits. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)
Buy tickets and check times on the official visits website. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)

Mass and Botafumeiro

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)
Cathedral notice: the Botafumeiro is temporarily out of service for restoration works. (Source: Santiago Cathedral, accessed 24/10/2026)

Pilgrim’s Mass: times and venue · Botafumeiro: when it swings