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Park · Santiago de Compostela, Galicia
Parque da Alameda
19th‑century park on the edge of the old town, featuring the Paseo da Ferradura, the best‑known view of the cathedral, the statue of the Dúas Marías and an oak grove.
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 Parque da Alameda
The Parque da Alameda lies on the west side of Santiago’s old town, on a hill that was converted into a public promenade in the 19th century, when the city bourgeoisie began using the place to stroll and be seen. It has tree‑lined alleys, gardens, a bandstand, fountains and sculptures.
The most popular route is the Paseo da Ferradura, horseshoe‑shaped, which skirts the upper part of the park. From there you get the classic view of the old town, with the Obradoiro façade and the cathedral towers rising above the roofs, especially at sunset.
At the park entrance, near the Porta Faxeira, is the colorful statue of the Dúas Marías, two sisters who walked the Alameda daily in the 1950s and 1960s, dressed and made up flamboyantly, and who became city characters. In the lower part, the Santa Susana oak grove has centuries‑old trees and the church of the same name.
The park hosts fairs and, during the Apostol festival in July, stalls and attractions.
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
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
At late afternoon, to see the low sun on the cathedral façade from the Paseo da Ferradura. At night, the illuminated cathedral also looks beautiful from there.
How to get there
It is next to the Porta Faxeira, at the end of Rúa do Franco, a 5‑minute walk from the cathedral and 10 minutes from the train station.
Tip
Follow the Paseo da Ferradura clockwise and stop at the viewpoint bench for the cathedral photo. Also take the photo beside the Dúas Marías; it’s a visitor ritual.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque da Alameda
Where can you take the classic photo of the cathedral?
From the Paseo da Ferradura, at the top of Parque da Alameda, with the towers rising above the old quarter’s rooftops.
Who are the Dúas Marías?
Two sisters who walked every day along the Alameda in the 1950s and 1960s and became city characters. The colorful statue stands at the park’s entrance.
Is the Alameda far from the cathedral?
No, about a 5-minute walk, exiting via Rúa do Franco.