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Monument · Santiago de Compostela, Galicia
Hostal dos Reis Católicos
Former pilgrims' hospital founded in 1499 by the Catholic Monarchs on the Praza do Obradoiro, with a plateresque portal and four cloisters, today a hotel in the Paradores chain.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hostal dos Reis Católicos
The Hostal dos Reis Católicos was founded in 1499 by Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon, the Catholic Monarchs, as a royal hospital to receive and care for pilgrims arriving ill and exhausted in Santiago. The work was led by architect Enrique Egas and was completed in the early decades of the 16th century.
The main façade facing the Obradoiro is plateresque, with reliefs of Adam and Eve, saints, apostles and medallions of the founding monarchs. Inside, the building is organized around four cloisters—two Renaissance and two Baroque—and a Gothic chapel with iron grilles at the crossing, from where the sick could hear mass from the infirmaries.
The hospital operated until 1953, when it was converted into a hotel in the state Paradores network. It continues the tradition of offering meals to a small number of pilgrims with a Compostela at set times.
The common areas, cloisters and chapel commonly have guided visits for non-guests.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
During guided tour hours, which are usually few per day. Check with the Parador reception.
How to get there
It is on the Praza do Obradoiro, on the north side beside the cathedral, a 15-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
Ask at reception about visits to the cloisters and the chapel. Even if you don't go in, stop in front of the main doorway to see the reliefs. If you have the time and budget, the Parador’s restaurant is located in the former stables.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hostal dos Reis Católicos
Is the Hostal dos Reis Católicos a hotel?
Yes. Since 1953 it has been a hotel in the Paradores network, housed in the former pilgrims’ hospital.
Can you visit without being a guest?
There are usually guided tours of the cloisters and the chapel at limited times. Check with reception.
Who founded the Hostal?
The Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, in 1499, as a hospital for pilgrims.